The long-term prospects for live exports are uncertain, with calves particularly under the spotlight, due mainly to EU proposals for stringent travel restrictions.

However, the immediate outlook for live exports is positive.

Export numbers in 2022 are expected to at least match, and most likely exceed, 2021 figures, when around 250,000 head were exported live.

Market forecasts for 2022 are underpinned by higher beef prices in key EU markets, fuelling greater optimism in beef finishing systems.

Spain and the Netherlands were the main markets for Irish calves in 2021, accounting for almost 50,000 and 60,000 head, respectively. This was despite a slow start to the season due to lower confidence in export markets, higher Irish calf prices reducing competitiveness and reduced shipping capacity.

Seamus McMenamin, Bord Bia sector manager for sheep and live exports, said the trade should be in a position to move calves earlier in 2022, with shipping access confirmed for this season.

The European Commission reports EU veal prices for calves aged less than eight months running 13.8% higher in 2021 at €5.49/kg. Prices for finished animals in the Netherlands are around 15% higher, while young bull prices in Spain are averaging 7% higher and heifers from 6% to 9% higher.

Northern Ireland

Live exports to Northern Ireland were a big success story in 2021, with numbers exported increasing by 8,798 to 72,249 up to the week ending 19 December.

Numbers were only marginally behind Spain but the market was well ahead in terms of value.

Beef prices in 2021 are running 15% higher on the back of higher demand in Britain creating opportunities for Irish beef to enter the wholesale and food service market, a situation which is not expected to change in the short term.

Non-EU countries

Live exports to non-EU countries were disappointing in 2021, falling by 12,800 head to 10,906 head.

McMenamin said: “Higher Irish cattle prices limited export volumes in 2021 but the opportunity is there to export higher volumes to North African markets and this should help to keep a floor under the trade, if required.

“There has also been good feedback reported from the visit of Israeli veterinary officials to Ireland a few weeks back, and hopefully there will be further progress in gaining access to this market in 2022.”