05 Dec 2025
Irish Processors Face Squeeze as Livestock Numbers Fall
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Irish Processors Face Squeeze as Livestock Numbers Fall
The Irish meat processing sector is bracing for a significant challenge as the number of cattle and sheep available for slaughter is set to fall sharply in 2025. Industry estimates suggest that factories will process over 200,000 fewer cattle and more than 500,000 fewer sheep this year.
The decline in sheep numbers is particularly acute, compounding a significant drop that already occurred in 2024. This tightening of supply is creating a surplus of processing capacity within the industry, raising concerns about the operational efficiency and profitability of meat plants across the country.
The situation in Ireland mirrors challenges seen in other major meat-producing nations, where supply chain disruptions and changing herd dynamics are putting pressure on processors. The reduction in available livestock is expected to have a significant impact on the entire supply chain, from farmers to exporters.
Source: Irish Farmers Journal / FarmersJournal.ie
Published: 5 December 2025 Original story