Friesian calf prices rose by €10-€15 on average this week on the back of improved demand from live exporters.

Lighter and export-type calves that were selling from €25 to €70 last week rose to €40 to €85 per head on average. Stronger Friesians are selling from €80 to €120 for young quality calves and €180 to €200 for well-conformed calves with age on their side.

Weather conditions for sea crossings have improved, resulting in high numbers of calves being exported at the end of last week. This had exporters out in force to restock on Monday and Tuesday.

Total live export of calves for 2021 are at 27,003, up 5,781 on the corresponding period in 2020

Despite disruption to transport channels and weather issues, calf exports are performing relatively well. Department of Agriculture figures for the week ending 7 March show 15,155 calves (14,446 male, 709 female) exported that week.

Of these, 6,439 went to the Netherlands, 5,477 to Spain, 1,270 to Italy, 801 to Northern Ireland, 589 to Poland, 298 to France and 279 to Belgium.

Total live export of calves for 2021 are at 27,003, up 5,781 on the corresponding period in 2020.

Meanwhile, Angus and Hereford calf prices have eased by €5 to €10 on average, with higher numbers appearing. ICBF analysis shows Angus calves averaged €194 over the last week with Herefords at €221.