Irish sheepmeat exports are on target to achieve a significant increase in performance in 2020. According to Joe Burke, Bord Bia senior livestock manager, the value of sheepmeat exports could reach €350m for 2020 if they maintain their improved performance until the end of the year. This would represent a significant lift from the value of €315m recorded in 2019.

The value of Irish sheepmeat exports for the first eight months of the year is running 10% higher than the corresponding period in 2019. This is being underpinned by an increase in sales value, with volumes exported running marginally lower.

Speaking on Friday at the online EU Congress of Sheep Farming and Associated Traditions conference, Burke said favourable trade dynamics in EU markets were providing the platform for improved performance. Imports of sheepmeat from New Zealand in the year to-date are running 17% lower, while exports from the UK to the EU are running 13% lower.

This has provided an ideal opportunity for Irish exports to secure a stronger trading position and command a greater share of exports into high-value EU markets. Sheepmeat sales across Europe have generally performed well despite the COVID-19 pandemic, with the closure of food service outlets having less of an effect than with beef, for example.

Domestic sales in the Irish market have also benefitted from consumers having more time for cooking with year-to-date sales running about 10% higher. This is also contributing to lower exports to EU markets, with higher volumes trading domestically.

Project Baa Baa events

There are numerous events planned over the weekend as part of Project Baa Baa's celebration of the economic, cultural and environmental contribution of sheep farming. See www.projectbaabaa.com for a full programme of events.