Irish sheep trade: quotes ease to €7.80–€7.85/kg; throughput still well back
Week ending 2 August 2025 — Ireland | Base quotes for lambs have come under pressure after several steady weeks. Plants are quoting €7.80–€7.85/kg (plus QA bonus), with most carcase weight limits at 21kg. Bord Bia notes higher availability of lambs in the UK and key export markets is tempering demand for Irish product.
Deadweight prices
The Irish deadweight lamb price averaged €7.80/kg for the week ending 2 August 2025. For context, GB averaged €8.73/kg, NI €7.71/kg, Australia €6.65/kg, and New Zealand €5.03/kg. (€/kg dw; weekly change and Y/Y comparisons available on Bord Bia.)
Throughput
Total sheep kill in DAFM-approved plants rose to 38,955 head last week, but weekly throughput remains behind the same week in 2024 (49,465 head). Year-to-date throughput is down 16% at 1,480,644 head, with lower numbers across all categories.
Spec reminder: major processors typically want R grade, fat score 2–3, up to 21kg, with QA status attracting bonuses. Bord Bia
See also: Irish cattle trade: tighter supplies lift quotes; R3 steer hits €7.56/kg
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