Farm incomes soar in Northern Ireland

Improved returns for milk, beef and sheep, combined with lower feed and fertiliser costs, facilitated a sharp increase in farm profits for producers in Northern Ireland in 2024.

First estimates from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) put Total Income from Farming (Tiff) in Northern Ireland at £766m for the calendar year – up 62% in nominal terms, or 56% after adjusting for inflation.

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The data shows total gross output was 8% higher at £3.19bn, with dairying the largest contributor at £1.1bn, followed by beef cattle at £658m.

At the same time, the total cost of inputs decreased by 3% to £2.09bn, with feedstuffs down 4% to £1.18bn.

Agriculture minister Andrew Muir welcomed the uptick, but acknowledged the impact of volatile markets from one year to the next.

“Fluctuating market conditions remains a very difficult issue for farmers to address,” he said.

“These fluctuations are mainly due to world markets, which are very much outside our control.”

Farm types 

The latest data also includes estimates of Farm Business Income by farm type for the period March 2024 to Feb 2025, indicating a doubling of average farm profit to just over £60,000.

The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) said the figures show that the majority of farm families are “finally” being fairly rewarded, reinforcing their “indispensable contribution” to food security during ongoing global uncertainties.

However, UFU president William Irvine expressed concern that arable farmers are struggling to make ends meet.

The value of output for cereals decreased by 6% to £38m, according to the Tiff figures, and producers are currently receiving less than the cost of production for their grain.

“For the agri-food industry and economy to thrive, every commodity and farm business must be rewarded fairly for the high-quality produce they produce,” said Mr Irvine.

“No sector can be left behind. They need equal opportunities for development and progress.”