UK Cattle and Sheep Market Update – Lamb Prices Rise, Cattle Prices Ease

The UK cattle and sheep market showed mixed trends during the week ending 21 June 2025, according to the latest data from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB). Lamb prices increased, while cattle prices softened across most categories

Cattle Market Overview

Prime cattle deadweight prices fell across all classifications. The all-prime average stood at 633p/kg, which remains 157p/kg higher than the same week in 2024 and 202p/kg above the five-year average.

• Heifer prices recorded the largest drop, down 9p/kg.
• Steer and young bull prices declined by 8p/kg and 5p/kg respectively.
• Cull cow prices fell by 7p/kg to 503p/kg.
• Prime cattle slaughter dropped to 31,700 head, bringing the year-to-date total to 807,200 head, a 3.2 per cent decline compared to 2024.
• Store cattle prices rose, with native steers (12–18 months) averaging £1,335.70 per head and native heifers £1,129 per head.

Sheep Market Overview

The sheep market saw a rebound in lamb prices and slaughter volumes.

• The NSL SQQ lamb price rose by 25p/kg to 749p/kg.
• Clean sheep slaughter increased to 182,400 head, recovering after a dip during the Qurbani period.
• Year-to-date slaughter reached 5.2 million head, up 3.8 per cent year-on-year.
• New season lambs now account for 79 per cent of finished live market throughput, signalling the end of carryover supply.

Market Outlook

The UK cattle and sheep market continues to reflect seasonal shifts and supply dynamics. While cattle prices have eased slightly, lamb prices are strengthening due to tightening supply and increased throughput of new season lambs.

Original data sourced from AHDB 

FSA Guidance July 2025 – Key Updates for UK Processors

What Is Mechanically Separated Meat (MSM)?

Key Points from the Updated Guidance

• Labelling: Businesses must list MSM separately from meat in ingredient declarations. They cannot include it in the total meat content.
• Traceability: Companies must keep clear records of MSM sourcing and usage throughout the supply chain.
• Imports: Importers must declare MSM correctly at the border and ensure products meet UK standards.
• Compliance: The FSA will monitor retail and foodservice products to ensure accurate classification and transparency.

Industry Impact

Original guidance available via the Food Standards Agency 

See also: FSA Appoints Two Businesses for Meat Inspections in the UK

Turkey Temporarily Closes Livestock Markets Nationwide Amid Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak

Published: 2 July 2025 | Meatex News Desk

The Turkish livestock market has been temporarily shut down following a resurgence of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry announced the nationwide closure of livestock markets in an effort to contain the spread of the highly contagious virus among cloven-hoofed animals

Key Measures Introduced

To prevent further transmission of the disease, Turkish authorities have implemented the following measures:

• Closure of all livestock markets across the country
• Restrictions on animal movement in affected regions
• Intensified vaccination campaigns in high-risk provinces
• Enhanced surveillance and biosecurity protocols at farms and transport hubs

These steps are part of a coordinated national response to limit the economic and animal health impact of the outbreak.

Impact on Trade and Producers

The timing of the outbreak is particularly concerning, as it follows Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha), a period when livestock sales typically surge. The restrictions have raised concerns among domestic producers and exporters, who fear long-term disruptions to trade and productivity.

Authorities are urging farmers and traders to comply with the new regulations to avoid further spread and economic losses. While foot-and-mouth disease does not pose a risk to human health, it can cause severe damage to livestock productivity and international trade.

Original reporting by Reuters.

European Beef Production Falls by 56,000 Tonnes in Q1 2025

The European beef market experienced a notable decline in production during the first quarter of 2025. According to the latest data from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), total beef output across the European Union fell by 3 per cent compared to the same period in 2024. This equates to a reduction of 56,000 tonnes, bringing total Q1 production to 1.58 million tonnes

Key Drivers Behind the Decline

The most significant production drops were recorded in France, Germany, and the Netherlands. These countries were severely affected by the Bluetongue virus (BTV-3), which disrupted herd health and productivity. Structural herd reductions and ongoing profitability challenges also contributed to the downturn.

In contrast, Poland and Ireland reported increased beef production. This growth was driven by strong domestic prices and sustained export demand, with Poland exporting 133,000 tonnes of beef in Q1 2025, up from 125,000 tonnes in the same period last year

Trade and Market Implications

Despite the decline in production, EU beef demand remains strong, prompting a rise in imports. EU-27 beef imports increased by 11 per cent year-on-year in Q1, reaching approximately 77,000 tonnes. The United Kingdom remains the largest beef supplier to the EU, followed by significant growth in imports from South American countries.

• Brazil: +2,200 tonnes (+12% YoY)
• Argentina: +2,500 tonnes (+23% YoY)
• Uruguay: +1,700 tonnes (+22% YoY)

Outlook for UK Exporters

With EU production tightening and demand holding firm, UK beef exporters may find new opportunities to expand their market share on the continent. The current supply gap could favour British beef, especially as EU buyers seek reliable sources to meet demand.

Original data sourced from AHDB 

Australian Cattle and Sheep Market: Prices Hold Steady Amid Strong Slaughter Volumes

The Australian cattle and sheep market remained active during the week ending 27 June 2025. According to the latest report from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), cattle prices held steady while lamb prices eased slightly. The market was shaped by strong processing demand, seasonal changes in livestock quality, and record slaughter volumes.

Cattle Market Performance

The Australian cattle market showed resilience, with prices supported by firm demand across key categories.

• The Restocker Steer Indicator rose by 11 cents to 391 cents per kilogram liveweight.
• The Restocker Heifer Indicator fell by 9 cents to 312 cents per kilogram liveweight.
• The Processor Cow Indicator increased by 9 cents to 291 cents per kilogram liveweight, with prices reaching 360 cents per kilogram at Dubbo.
• National cattle slaughter reached 153,442 head, the highest weekly total since December 2019. Victoria and New South Wales recorded significant increases.

Sheep and Lamb Market Trends

The Australian sheep market experienced softer pricing, particularly for lambs, due to declining quality and selective buying.

• The Heavy Lamb Indicator dropped by 32 cents to 1,028 cents per kilogram carcase weight.
• The Trade Lamb Indicator also declined, reflecting reduced demand for midweight lambs.
• The Mutton Indicator fell by 28 cents to 644 cents per kilogram carcase weight, with quality issues affecting prices at major saleyards.
• Lamb slaughter rose to 445,799 head, while sheep slaughter declined to 159,701 head. This represents an 8 per cent year-on-year decrease in sheep slaughter.

Market Outlook

The Australian cattle and sheep market continues to balance strong processor demand with seasonal shifts in supply and quality. While cattle prices remain stable, lamb and mutton values are under pressure due to variable quality and buyer caution.

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Original data sourced from Meat & Livestock Australia 

UK Cattle and Sheep Market Update – Week Ending 21 June 2025

The UK cattle and sheep market June 2025 update from AHDB shows mixed results. Cattle prices weakened, while sheep values edged higher on tighter supplies.

Cattle Market Overview

Prime cattle deadweight prices fell across all categories. The all-prime average reached 633p/kg, which was 157p above 2024 and 202p above the five-year average.

The heifer category recorded the sharpest drop, losing 9p/kg. Steers and young bulls fell by 8p/kg and 5p/kg, respectively. Cull cow prices also eased, down 7p/kg to 503p/kg.

Slaughter numbers decreased. Prime cattle kill fell by 2,000 head to 31,700, bringing the year-to-date total to 807,200 head—a 3.2% decline year-on-year.

In contrast, store cattle values edged higher. Native steers (12–18 months) averaged £1,335.70/head, while native heifers reached £1,129/head.

Sheep Market Overview

The NSL SQQ lamb price climbed 25p/kg to 749p/kg. Clean sheep slaughter rose to 182,400 head, rebounding after lower numbers during the Qurbani period.

Year-to-date throughput now totals 5.2 million head, an increase of 3.8% compared with 2024. Importantly, new season lambs accounted for 79% of finished live market throughput, confirming the near end of carryover supplies.

Market Outlook

Overall, the UK cattle and sheep market June 2025 reflects seasonal adjustments. Cattle values softened as supplies remained steady, while lamb prices gained ground. Export demand, weather patterns, and upcoming festival-driven consumption are expected to shape the market in the weeks ahead.

Original data sourced from AHDB.

Stornoway Abattoir Faces Uncertain Future – June 2025

The Stornoway abattoir future June 2025 remains unclear as falling usage and rising costs challenge the viability of the facility. Operated by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, it is the UK’s only local authority-run abattoir.

Declining Use and Rising Costs

The abattoir fell short of its £184,000 income target last year. At a recent transport and infrastructure committee meeting, Lochs councillor Angus Morrison warned crofters to make greater use of the facility. He said bluntly: “It is either use it or lose it.”

Slaughter fees are due to increase by 5%, pushing the cost of processing a sheep to around £44. Morrison stressed that the price rise is necessary for long-term sustainability.

However, officials also reported that some crofters are slaughtering livestock at home, bypassing the site. A wider decline in sheep numbers across the Western Isles is also reducing throughput.

Local Concerns

Councillor Donald Crichton noted that bureaucratic hurdles are discouraging crofters from expanding flocks. This adds further pressure on the abattoir. Last year, the council provided £50,000 from Crown Estate funding to keep the facility running. It also delayed the seasonal opening to save an additional £14,000.

Market Outlook

The future of the Stornoway abattoir now depends heavily on community support. Local leaders argue that without greater use from crofters, the abattoir risks closure. For rural communities in the Outer Hebrides, that could mean losing a vital local service.

In summary, the Stornoway abattoir future June 2025 update shows an industry under pressure. Costs are rising, numbers are falling, and survival depends on increased support from crofters and farmers.

Source: BBC News. 

Australian Sheep Meat Industry Booms with Record Prices and Export Growth

The Australian sheep meat industry June 2025 is enjoying record highs. Prices and exports are surging, marking a sharp recovery from the oversupply crisis of 2023.

Strong Export Growth

In the first five months of 2025, exports of Australian sheep meat jumped by 40% year-on-year. According to Reuters, this growth reflects tight global supplies and rising demand, especially from the United States and China.

Improved weather and stronger pasture availability have also supported the rebound. Farmers are rebuilding herds strategically after a difficult 2023, when oversupply drove prices to unsustainable lows.

Record Prices

Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) confirmed that lamb prices have reached unprecedented levels, with average export values climbing steadily. The U.S. has now become the top buyer of Australian lamb. At the same time, China remains the primary market for mutton, underlining the importance of diversified export channels.

Industry Outlook

Industry analysts believe this positive momentum could last through the second half of 2025. However, the outlook depends on continued strong demand and Australia’s ability to maintain its competitive edge in both quality and supply chain efficiency.

For many farmers and exporters, this resurgence brings welcome relief. Just two years ago, the sector faced heavy financial pressure from oversupply and weak global demand.

Sector Resilience

Overall, the Australian sheep meat industry June 2025 update demonstrates resilience in the red meat sector. With exports rising and prices hitting records, Australia has reinforced its role as a leading global supplier of lamb and mutton.

Original reporting by Reuters. 

USDA Explores Poultry Bird Flu Vaccination Plan Amid Export Concerns – June 2025

The USDA poultry bird flu vaccine plan June 2025 is under review as the U.S. Department of Agriculture considers vaccinating poultry for the first time. Officials are weighing how such a programme might affect critical export markets while aiming to protect domestic flocks.

Why It Matters

Since 2022, avian influenza has forced the culling of nearly 175 million chickens, turkeys, and other birds. This makes it the most severe animal health emergency in U.S. history. The loss of egg-laying hens pushed egg prices to record levels. Grocers rationed supplies, restaurants raised menu prices, and food manufacturers boosted imports from Turkey, Brazil, and South Korea.

To respond, the USDA committed $100 million to vaccine research and has already spent over $1 billion compensating farmers for culled flocks, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Industry and Government Action

Industry groups expect the USDA to publish a written plan by July. The department confirmed it is working with federal, state, and industry officials, while also consulting international trade partners to design the strategy.

One proposed plan from egg producers recommends initial vaccinations for baby chicks, followed by booster shots and regular flock testing. Birds testing positive would still be culled. This approach aims to reduce infection risk while maintaining confidence among global importers.

Market Impact

The debate highlights a central challenge: how to balance disease prevention with trade security. Vaccination may help stabilise domestic production, but some export markets could restrict imports from vaccinated flocks.

In conclusion, the USDA poultry bird flu vaccine plan June 2025 reflects both opportunity and risk. Success will depend on international acceptance, ongoing testing, and continued collaboration with trading partners.

Original reporting by Reuters: USDA develops potential plan to vaccinate poultry for bird flu

China Extends Anti-Dumping Probe on EU Pork Imports – June 2025

Global Markets – 13 June 2025. The China extends anti-dumping probe on EU pork imports update has raised concerns across the meat sector. Beijing announced a six-month extension, pushing its final decision to 16 December 2025.

Why It Matters

China is the world’s largest consumer of pork. At the same time, the European Union supplies more than half of China’s imported pork, valued at US $2.4 billion in 2024. The extended investigation threatens this critical trade flow.

Analysts widely view the move as a response to EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. The delay could influence global trade dynamics and create further uncertainty for European exporters.

Impact on EU Pork Exports

The ongoing review affects over US $2 billion worth of EU pork exports to China. Major suppliers such as Spain, the Netherlands, and Denmark face the greatest exposure. In particular, China relies on the EU for pork offal, including pig ears, noses, and feet. These cuts are highly valued in Chinese cuisine, making any trade restrictions especially disruptive.

Market Outlook

Despite the tariff concerns, reports suggest that China and the EU may be close to an agreement on electric vehicle duties. If negotiations succeed, exporters could avoid significant trade barriers. However, if talks stall, the EU pork trade may face reduced access to the Chinese market.

Overall, the China extends anti-dumping probe on EU pork imports development highlights the fragile balance between trade policy and global meat supply. Exporters across Europe should monitor the situation closely, as outcomes in December 2025 will shape market opportunities for the year ahead.

Original reporting by Ella Cao, Ethan Wang, Shi Bu and Ryan Woo. Edited by Louise Heavens. Published by Reuters on 13 June 2025.