August 10, 2021

AHDB: EU finished cattle prices on the rise since January 2021

Finished cattle prices in the European Union have continued to rise since January 2021, having been on an upward trajectory since July last year, according to the United Kingdom's Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).

Prices in most selected EU countries have enjoyed recent price gains, although Poland and Germany have seen prices ease in recent weeks.

UK cattle prices have also been firming in recent weeks, continuing to hold a premium over those on the continent. In euro terms, UK cattle prices have lifted 8.67c/kg in the latest three weeks, standing at €4.67/kg (US$5.48) in the week ending July 5, 2021. These gains have been aided by the recent strengthening of the pound against the euro.

Similarly, Irish prices have seen particular growth in recent weeks, standing at €4.35/kg (US$5.11) in the week ending July 5, 2021. This brings the gap between UK and Irish prices to 31.6c/kg. Tighter cattle supplies both domestically and on the continent have contributed to this increase.

As seen in our latest Beef Market Outlook, lower cattle availability in both Ireland and the UK have supported the elevated prices seen, with this trend expected to continue for the rest of the year. Strong domestic retail demand throughout the pandemic has been key to supporting domestic prices.

However, as restrictions ease, foodservice demand is anticipated to increase, albeit considerably lower than pre-pandemic levels.

With UK cattle prices at a considerable premium to those on the continent, AHDB expected an increase in demand for EU beef, and this may lessen the support for domestic cattle.

On the other hand, exports are likely to be less competitive.

- AHDB