Irish beef for EU markets on up
Irish beef for EU markets on up
SUPPLIES of Irish beef hitting EU markets are expected to rise by 30,000t by 2002, although imports into the UK should remain static.
With nine out of every 10 beef animals destined for export, the targets should be achieved relatively easily, believes Michael Duffy, chief executive of Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board.
Exports have been stepped up, with a huge increase in the number of calves and store animals shipped to EU destinations – already totalling 165,000 head, a rise of 40% on last year.
Main markets include Spain, Italy and Holland.
The planned increase will add competition to supplies of UK beef heading for export markets. However, the Irish beef price has risen considerable in recent months to an equivalent of £1.76/kg deadweight for an R3 carcass, narrowing the price gap.
Bord Bias plans do not include a marked increase in supplies destined for the UK. Although a significant outlet, volume is expected to remain stable at 90,000-100,000t – about 30% down on pre-BSE levels. *