Latest Meat Industry News & Insights | Meatex

Meatex News delivers independent, trade-focused reporting and market insight across the UK and European meat industry. Our coverage includes wholesale price movements, supply and demand trends, regulatory updates, and market developments relevant to professionals across the meat trade.

From beef and lamb pricing to food standards and policy changes, Meatex News provides practical analysis designed to help wholesalers, processors, butchers, and industry decision makers stay informed and respond to market change.

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NI Beef Farmers Warn of “Perfect Storm” as Prices Fall

Northern Ireland Beef Sector Faces “Perfect Storm” as Factory Prices Fall Northern Ireland’s beef sector is facing mounting pressure as factory prices continue to fall, cattle bookings are delayed and imports increase. The Ulster Farmers’ Union has warned that confiden...
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Rain Boosts Australian Cattle Prices as Lamb Trade Eases

Rain Lifts Australian Cattle Markets as Sheep Trade Remains Mixed Australian cattle markets moved higher this week after scattered rain across key production regions improved sentiment and helped break the weaker trend seen since mid March. Meat & Livestock Australia said ...
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UK Firm Plans Europe’s Largest Cultivated Meat Site

UK Firm to Build Europe’s Largest Cultivated Meat Facility UK cultivated meat business Meatly is planning to build what it describes as Europe’s largest cultivated meat production facility after securing £10.4 million in Series A funding. The London-based company said it ...
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Australian Red Meat Trade Adapts to Middle East Disruption

Australian Red Meat Exports Adjust to Middle East Disruption Australian red meat exporters are continuing to supply Middle Eastern markets despite disruption to freight, fuel and logistics linked to regional instability. Meat & Livestock Australia said key Middle Eastern m...
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Australian Beef Exports Build Momentum in UK Market

Australian Beef Exports to UK Gain Momentum Under Free Trade Deal Australian beef exports to the UK are gaining momentum, with April shipments reaching 2,700 tonnes, including 2,500 tonnes of chilled beef. The figure was more than three times higher than the volume recorded in...
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Irish Cattle Prices Ease Despite Tight Beef Supplies

Irish Cattle Prices Ease Despite Tight Supplies, Says AHDB Irish cattle prices came under pressure through February and March, despite prime cattle slaughter remaining well below year earlier levels, according to AHDB. AHDB said Irish prime cattle values fell for seven consecu...
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Cattle Prices Ease as Sheep Values Stay Firm

Cattle Prices Slip as Sheep Values Remain Historically High Cattle prices fell across all major categories in the latest AHDB weekly market wrap, as weaker consumer demand continued to feed through to farmgate values. For the week ending 2 May, the GB all-prime deadweight catt...
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Beef and Lamb Joints Push Meat Inflation Higher in April

Beef and Lamb Roasting Joints Drive April Meat Inflation, Says AIMS Meat and poultry prices rose by 4.06% in the 12 months to April 2026, according to the latest inflation report from the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers. The annual figure is lower than the 7.95% reco...
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US Beef Exporters Target UK Buyers After Duty Free Return

US Beef Promotion Steps Up in London After Return of Duty Free UK Access US beef exporters are stepping up promotional activity in London following the return of duty free access to the UK market under a new 13,000 metric tonne quota. The U.S. Meat Export Federation said its L...
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US Beef Returns to UK Market Under Duty Free Quota

US Beef Regains Duty Free Access to UK Market US beef has regained duty free access to the UK market for the first time in more than five years, following the introduction of a new UK US trade framework. The agreement creates a 13,000 metric tonne duty free quota for US beef, ...
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Beef Mince Prices Jump Nearly 29% in a Year

Beef Mince Prices Rise 28.7% in Past Year Beef mince prices in Great Britain have risen sharply over the past year, with AHDB figures showing the average retail price up by almost 28.7%. Despite the increase, beef mince remains one of the most important household staples, with...
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Isle of Man Meat Plant Receives Over £19m in Support

Isle of Man Meat Funding Tops £19m Since 2021 Isle of Man meat funding has reached around £19.4 million since 2021, with the Isle of Man Meat Company receiving government subvention and related funding approvals to support the island’s meat processing infrastructure. The f...
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Mercosur tensions rise over EU beef quota

Mercosur Dispute Over EU Beef Quota Intensifies Ahead of May Launch Tensions are rising within the Mercosur bloc over the allocation of a new beef export quota to the European Union. According to UkrAgroConsult, the 99,000-tonne quota is due to come into effect on 1 May, but m...
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Great British Beef Week returns with TV backing

Great British Beef Week 2026 Returns with Clarkson’s Farm Backing Great British Beef Week will return from 23 to 30 April 2026, promoting the quality and sustainability of British beef. The campaign, led by the National Farmers’ Union, has gained added visibility this ...
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EU-Australia Deal Sets Beef Quota at 30,600 Tonnes

EU-Australia Trade Deal Sets Beef Import Quota at 30,600 Tonnes The EU and Australia have agreed terms on beef access as part of their new free trade agreement, setting a tariff rate quota of 30,600 tonnes carcase weight equivalent. The figure represents a compromise between n...
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Brazil Nears China Beef Quota as Exports Surge

Brazil Beef Exports to China Near Quota Limit Brazil’s beef exports to China are rapidly approaching their annual quota, raising the prospect of a supply gap later in the year. By February 2026, shipments had reached 372,100 tonnes, accounting for over a third of the 1.1 mil...
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UK Organic Producers Gain Access to Japan’s £1.4bn Market

UK Opens Access to Japan’s £1.4bn Organic Market UK organic livestock producers will gain easier access to Japan following a new agreement recognising the equivalency of organic standards between the two countries. The deal, effective from 1 April 2026, removes the need for...
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Silver Fern Farms pauses Middle East exports

Silver Fern Farms Halts Middle East Exports Amid Gulf Conflict New Zealand processor Silver Fern Farms has temporarily suspended exports to the Middle East due to disruption caused by the ongoing conflict in the Persian Gulf. According to reporting by Radio New Zealand, the co...
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New Halal abattoir boosts UK processing capacity

New Halal Abattoir Opens in West Yorkshire A new halal abattoir has opened in Halifax, West Yorkshire, aimed at increasing UK sheep processing capacity and easing ongoing pressure on kill space. Medina Group Ltd says the purpose-built facility will source livestock exclusively...
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AIMS: Beef and lamb pull prices down in March, but “storm” risks ahead

AIMS March Inflation Report: “Calm before the storm” as supermarket meat prices fall again UK supermarket meat and poultry prices fell for a second consecutive month in March, according to the latest AIMS meat and poultry inflation report, with the trade body warning that ...
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UK seeks feedback on plan to remove EU border checks

Defra Launches Consultation on UK–EU SPS Agreement to Ease Food Trade The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has launched a Call for Information. This is on a proposed UK–EU sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement. The agreement, targeted for implementat...
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EU and Australia move closer to major trade deal

EU and Australia Near €49bn Trade Deal with Beef Access Breakthrough The European Union and Australia are reportedly close to finalising a major trade agreement worth around €49 billion after six years of negotiations. According to reporting by EU Perspectives, a key break...
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Spanish pork exports disrupted by ASF restrictions

Spanish Pork Exports Hit as One Third of Certificates Blocked After ASF Outbreak Spain’s pork export trade has been disrupted after around one third of export certificates were blocked following the recent African swine fever (ASF) outbreak. According to reporting by The Str...
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UK lamb prices rise as supply remains tight

UK Sheep Market Strengthens as Demand Outpaces Tight Supply The UK sheep market is showing renewed strength as strong demand continues to outpace limited supply. According to analysis from Scotland’s Rural College, deadweight lamb prices have risen to around 765.5p/kg, refle...
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Argentina reforms aim to revive beef export industry

Argentina’s Meat Industry Opens Up Under Milei Reforms Argentina’s meat sector is undergoing major structural changes following reforms introduced by President Javier Milei aimed at deregulating the country’s beef industry. According to analysis reported by Meating Place...
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Irish sheep prices hold steady in latest market report

Irish Sheep Prices Remain Firm in Latest Bord Bia Market Update Sheep prices in Ireland remain firm according to the latest market data published by Bord Bia. The update shows steady prices across the sheep and lamb trade, reflecting continued demand for Irish lamb in both dom...
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Australian cattle and sheep markets show continued strength

Australian Cattle and Sheep Prices Strengthen in Latest Market Update Livestock prices in Australia continued to strengthen in the latest weekly market update from Meat & Livestock Australia. The report highlights firm cattle and sheep prices across several categories as s...
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Irish cattle prices remain steady in latest market report

Irish Cattle Prices Hold Firm in Latest Bord Bia Market Update Irish cattle prices remain firm according to the latest market data published by Bord Bia. The update shows steady prices across several beef categories, reflecting continued demand for Irish cattle from processors...
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Australian cattle prices climb toward record levels

Australian Heavy Steer Prices Surge Toward Record Highs Cattle prices in Australia are rising sharply as tightening supply pushes heavy steer values toward historic highs. According to the Meat & Livestock Australia, heavy steer prices have surged in recent weeks. This tre...
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Liffey Meats secures major retail contract with Lidl

Lidl Signs €75m Irish Beef Supply Deal with Liffey Meats Supermarket retailer Lidl has agreed a major supply contract with Irish processor Liffey Meats worth approximately €75 million. According to reporting by RTÉ, the agreement will see Liffey Meats supply Irish beef pr...
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Lab grown foie gras and chicken reviewed by UK regulators

Lab Grown Foie Gras and Chicken Undergo UK Safety Review Cultivated versions of foie gras and chicken are undergoing safety assessment in the UK as regulators examine potential future approval of lab grown meat products. According to reporting by AOL, the products are currentl...
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Irish pig prices remain steady in latest market update

Irish Pig Prices Remain Stable in Latest Bord Bia Market Update Pig prices in Ireland remain broadly stable according to the latest market update from Bord Bia. The report indicates that Irish pig prices have maintained steady levels in recent weeks, reflecting balanced supply...
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Cattle and sheep markets supported by tight supply

UK Cattle and Sheep Prices Remain Firm in Latest AHDB Market Wrap Cattle and sheep prices in the UK remain firm according to the latest weekly market report from Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. The update highlights continued support for livestock prices as tig...
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UK publishes latest livestock slaughter figures

UK Livestock Slaughter Statistics Released for December 2025 New official figures have been released showing the number of cattle, sheep and pigs slaughtered across the UK in December 2025. According to data published by Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra...
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US food giant seeks refund over Trump era tariffs

Hormel Foods Sues US Government Over Trump Era Tariffs US food company Hormel Foods has launched legal action against the US government seeking a refund of tariffs imposed during the Trump administration. According to reporting by Meatingplace, the company has filed a lawsuit ...
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Bord Bia launches global promotion for Irish food exports

Bord Bia Launches Global St Patrick’s Day Campaign to Promote Irish Food Ireland’s food export agency Bord Bia has launched an international St Patrick’s Day promotion campaign to showcase Irish food and drink in key global markets. According to Bord Bia, the campaign wi...
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Changes announced to UK lamb price reporting system

AHDB Announces Changes to Deadweight Sheep Price Reporting The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board has announced an update to how deadweight sheep prices will be reported in its market data. According to AHDB, the change aims to improve transparency. It will also en...
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Scotland Announces £9m Support Package for Meat Processing Sector

New grants announced for food processing businesses in Scotland The Scottish government has announced new funding support for the food and drink processing sector during the annual conference of Quality Meat Scotland. Speaking in Edinburgh, Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeo...
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Rabobank warns global beef supplies tightening

Global Beef Supply Tightening as Trade Flows Shift Global beef markets are expected to face tightening supplies and increased price volatility during 2026, according to the latest analysis from Rabobank. The bank’s Q1 2026 Global Beef Quarterly reports that the US beef cow h...
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Meat Industry Warns FSA Charge Rises Could Force Abattoir Closures

AIMS criticises FSA fees as pressure grows on small meat plants The UK meat industry has warned that newly announced official control charges from the Food Standards Agency could push some abattoirs toward closure. According to the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers, th...
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UK Cattle and Sheep Prices Hold Firm in Latest Market Update

UK livestock prices remain firm as supply stays tight UK cattle and sheep markets remain firm as tight supply continues to support prices. According to the latest weekly update from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, prime cattle prices remain historically str...
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Middle East conflict drives surge in Brazilian beef shipping costs

Middle East Conflict Disrupts Brazilian Beef Exports Brazilian beef exporters are scaling back shipments as the escalating conflict in the Middle East increases freight costs and disrupts logistics. According to reporting by The Beef Site, the head of the Brazilian beef export...
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ASF and bird flu tighten meat supply in South Korea

South Korean Meat Prices Surge as ASF and Bird Flu Reduce Supply Retail meat prices in South Korea have risen sharply as disease outbreaks reduce domestic livestock supply. According to reporting by Korea JoongAng Daily, pork belly prices have climbed 13.5% year on year, while...
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UK Launches Bird Flu Vaccine Trials for Turkeys

Turkey Sector Chosen for UK Avian Influenza Vaccine Trials The UK has launched its first field trials of a vaccine against highly pathogenic avian influenza. These UK bird flu vaccine trials are focusing on turkey production in England. According to reporting by Farmers Guide,...
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New Angus bonus structure agreed between farmers and processors

Irish Angus factory bonus scheme to introduce genetics and sustainability payments The Certified Irish Angus factory breed bonus scheme is set for significant changes from September 2026. This will happen under a new payment structure. According to reporting by the Agriland, t...
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Brazil pork exports reach record as Philippines overtakes China

Brazilian Pork Exports Hit Record High Despite China Slowdown Brazilian pork exports reached a record 1.64 million tonnes in 2025 despite a significant slowdown in Chinese demand. According to a market update from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, shipments i...
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AHDB Flags Growing Australian and New Zealand Meat Volumes

AHDB Warns of Rising Australasian Beef and Lamb Imports to UK Growing imports of beef and lamb from Australia and New Zealand are expected to increase competition in the UK market as free trade agreement quotas expand. According to analysis from the Agriculture and Horticultur...
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Irish Poultry Farmers Call for Bird Flu Compensation Scheme

Irish Poultry Sector Seeks Compensation for Bird Flu Losses Irish poultry farmers are urging the government to introduce a compensation scheme for producers affected by avian influenza restrictions. According to reporting by Agriland, Monaghan County Council has formally calle...
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First Tariff Free UK Beef Shipment Arrives in United States

Foyle Food Group Ships First Tariff Free British Beef to US The first tariff free shipment of British beef under the UK US Economic Prosperity Deal has landed in the United States. According to GOV.UK, the consignment was dispatched by Foyle Food Group. This marks the first us...
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Australian Red Meat Shipments Hit by Middle East Disruption

Middle East Conflict Disrupts Australian Red Meat Export Routes Escalating conflict in the Middle East has begun to disrupt Australian red meat exports to key regional markets. According to reporting by Beef Central, port closures and restricted airspace across parts of the re...
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UK Meat Prices Dip in February, But AIMS Warns of Middle East Ripple Effects

Middle East instability could shift UK meat prices as AIMS tracker turns negative UK meat and poultry prices slipped slightly in February, with the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) reporting the first negative month on month movement since it launched its infla...
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Middle East Conflict Halts Tasmanian Lamb Exports

Tasmanian Lamb Exporter Loses Key Market as Middle East Conflict Hits Trade A major Tasmanian lamb exporter has lost access to its largest international market. This comes as geopolitical tensions escalate in the Middle East. According to reporting by ABC News, Tasmanian Quali...
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Farm Group Calls for Stronger Oversight of Factory Reporting

ICMSA Raises Concerns Over Beef Factory Grading and Pricing Oversight The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers’ Association has raised fresh concerns about the integrity of beef factory grading and pricing systems in Ireland. According to reporting by Agriland, ICMSA has questioned...
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Tight Supply Continues to Support UK Red Meat Prices

Cattle and Sheep Prices Firm in Latest Weekly Market Update Cattle and sheep prices remained firm in the latest weekly market update, reflecting continued supply tightness across the UK. According to the AHDB weekly cattle and sheep market wrap, prime cattle prices held at ele...
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UK Pork Imports Hit Four Year Low Despite EU Price Gap

UK Pork Imports Fall to Lowest Level Since 2021 UK pig meat imports declined by 5% in 2025, reaching their lowest annual volume since 2021. According to reporting from AHDB, the drop came despite a widening price gap between UK and EU pork. Resilient domestic demand and disrup...
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UK Reopens Market to Bosnian Poultry Imports

Great Britain Lifts Import Ban on Bosnian Poultry Great Britain has lifted restrictions on imports of fresh poultry meat and poultry products from Bosnia and Herzegovina. According to an update published on GOV.UK, the suspension had been in place since February 2025 following...
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Irish Beef Quotes Hold Steady as Market Stability Continues

Irish Beef Factory Quotes Remain Unchanged Irish beef factory quotes remain largely unchanged this week, signalling continued short-term stability in the trade despite ongoing supply pressures. According to reporting by Agriland, base quotes for steers are holding around €7....
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Lamb and Goatmeat Face New US Trade Levy

US Introduces 15% Tariff on Sheep and Goat Meat Imports The United States has announced a new 15% tariff on imported sheep and goat meat, while Australian beef exports will remain exempt under the latest trade measures. According to reporting by Beef Central, the tariff adjust...
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Scarce Cattle Forces Irish Processors to Limit Kill

Irish Beef Plants Manage Throughput as Cattle Supplies Tighten Irish beef processors are reportedly rationing limited cattle supplies in an effort to preserve processing capacity, as weekly slaughter numbers remain subdued. According to reporting by Agriland, kill figures have...
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Cyprus Imposes Quarantine After Foot and Mouth Cases

Cyprus Culls Livestock After Disease Detection Authorities in Cyprus have introduced quarantine measures and ordered culling operations following an outbreak of foot and mouth disease in the Larnaca district. According to reporting by Cyprus Mail, veterinary services confirmed...
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Brazil to Allocate Beef Export Volumes by Company

Brazil Plans Company Level Beef Export Caps for China Brazil is preparing to introduce individual export quotas for beef shipments to China, as authorities seek to manage trade flows under evolving tariff conditions. According to reporting by IndexBox, the proposed system woul...
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Brazil Nears China Beef Cap as 55% Tariff Risk Emerges

Brazil Races Towards China Beef Cap as Tariff Threat Looms Brazil’s beef exports to China have accelerated sharply at the start of 2026. This raises the prospect of the annual quota being filled months ahead of schedule. That could trigger punitive tariffs on additional ship...
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ABP Reshuffles Senior Leadership Across Ireland, UK and Poland

Senior Leadership Changes at ABP Across Key Markets ABP has confirmed a senior management restructure affecting its operations in Ireland, the UK and Poland, with new appointments aimed at strengthening regional oversight. This ABP leadership reshuffle is expected to have an i...
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Lean Beef Values Jump as US Supply Tightens

US Lean Beef Trimmings Climb Sharply Amid China Buying US lean beef prices have surged in early 2026, supported by tighter domestic supply and sustained Chinese demand. According to reporting by S&P Global, lean beef trimmings have risen 21.8% year-on-year to $8,135 per me...
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Gap Widens Between Irish and Spanish Lamb

Irish Lamb Trade Flat as Spanish Prices Push Towards €11/kg Irish lamb prices remain static this week, with factory quotes holding around €7.50/kg, while Spanish and French markets continue to trade at significantly higher levels. According to reporting by Agriland, the av...
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Factory Kill Numbers Slip as Irish Cattle Supply Tightens

Irish Cattle Slaughter Running 5,000 Head Per Week Behind 2025 Irish beef kill numbers are currently running more than 5,000 head per week below the same period last year, adding further strain to an already pressured processing sector. According to reporting by Agriland, week...
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Strong Throughput Fails to Lift Irish Pig Prices

Irish Pig Prices Ease as Throughput Remains Strong Irish pig prices have edged lower in recent weeks, despite robust slaughter throughput in early 2026. According to the latest market update from Bord Bia, the average reported deadweight price for Grade E pigs for the week end...
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Irish Sheep Throughput Rises Despite Price Dip

Irish Hogget Trade Eases as Heavy Carcases Pressure Market The Irish hogget trade has softened this week, with base quotes falling back to around €7.50–€7.60/kg, plus Quality Assurance bonuses. According to the latest market update from Bord Bia, factories have trimmed q...
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Mixed Signals Across Australian Livestock Trade

Australian Livestock Markets Steady as Slaughter Levels Adjust Australian cattle and sheep markets showed mixed movements in the latest reporting week, with prices stabilising while overall slaughter volumes adjusted following recent volatility. These developments highlight tr...
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Australia Beef Sector Sees Highest Slaughter Since 2019

Australian Cattle Throughput Hits Highest Weekly Level Since 2019 Latest updates show that Australia cattle slaughter rates have reached their highest weekly total since 2019. This signals sustained processing activity despite recent weather disruptions. According to reporting...
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ABP Reviews Waterford Operations as Supply Tightens

ABP Opens Redundancy Talks with 230 Staff at Waterford Site ABP has begun a formal redundancy consultation with around 230 employees at its cutting and deboning facility in Waterford, citing tightening livestock supplies and rising operational costs. According to reporting by ...
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Subdued Slaughter Numbers Shape Irish Cattle Trade

Irish Cattle Throughput Down 15% as Prices Hold Steady Irish cattle throughput remains below last year’s levels, although factory quotes have held broadly steady in recent weeks. According to the latest update from Bord Bia, 30,906 cattle were processed in the week ending 31...
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Beef and Lamb Retail Trade Faces Volume Pressure

Red Meat Retail Sales Show Mixed Start to 2026 Red meat retail performance in Great Britain delivered a mixed picture in the latest reporting period, with value growth supported by pricing, while volumes remained under pressure. According to new consumer insight from AHDB, tot...
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GB Livestock Prices Adjust Amid Higher Throughput

GB Cattle Prices Ease as Lamb Market Faces Pressure Prime cattle prices in Great Britain edged lower in the latest reporting week, while lamb values also came under pressure amid softer demand. According to the latest market wrap from AHDB, greater numbers of finished cattle c...
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Australian Abattoir Safety Standards Sharpened

Australian  Regulators Reinforce Abattoir Standards The Western Australian Government has announced strengthened oversight of meat processing facilities. This follows the completion of a targeted inspection programme across the state’s abattoirs. These measures are part of ...
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Irish Factory Cattle Supplies Tighten at Start of 2026

January Beef Kill Down 26,000 Head as Factory Supplies Tighten Factory cattle supplies in Ireland have fallen sharply at the start of 2026, with the cumulative January beef kill down by 26,000 head compared with the same period last year, according to the latest slaughter data...
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Manx Farmers Call for UK Trade Safeguards

Isle of Man Farmers Urge UK Trade to Be Made a Priority Farmers on the Isle of Man are calling on their government to make continued, friction free trade with the United Kingdom an urgent priority. They warn that any disruption would have serious consequences for the island’...
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Irish Cattle Kill Falls 11% as Prices Stabilise

Irish Cattle Throughput Down 11% as Beef Prices Hold Firm Lower levels of cattle processing in the second half of 2025 have contributed to a stabilisation in Irish cattle numbers. Slaughter throughput remains notably subdued at the start of 2026. To date, 114,900 cattle have b...
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Irish Sheep Prices Ease Amid Processor Pressure

Hogget Prices Ease as Heavy Carcases Pressure Irish Sheep Trade The Irish hogget trade has come under renewed downward pressure, with heavier carcase weights creating challenges for processors and dragging on prices across the market. Base hogget quotes have eased back to arou...
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MLA Maps Global Meat Trade Trends for 2026

MLA Releases 2026 Global Meat Market Snapshots Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has published its 2026 Global Market Snapshots to provide insights into the global meat market outlook. The publication outlines key trends shaping beef, sheepmeat and goatmeat markets across m...
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Supply Surge Tests Australian Livestock Markets

Australian Weekly Cattle and Sheep Market Wrap Australian cattle and sheep markets experienced a sharp rebound in supply this week following widespread saleyard closures caused by extreme heat and the Australia Day public holiday, with cattle prices holding steady while sheep ...
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China Keeps Door Shut on Most US Beef

China’s Ongoing Lockout of US Beef Continues China continues to block most US beef exports. The majority of American beef production has been effectively locked out of the Chinese market since March 2025, according to industry leaders. The issue stems from China’s ongoing ...
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USA Opens Door to More Argentine Beef as Prices Surge

USA Increases Argentine Beef Quota to Tackle Rising Prices The United States has moved to ease pressure on its domestic beef market by temporarily increasing imports of Argentine beef, as record-low cattle numbers push ground beef prices sharply higher. In a proclamation issue...
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Meat inflation slows in January, but Ramadan set to lift Halal lamb prices

Britain’s meat inflation eases in January, but Ramadan set to push Halal lamb prices higher Britain’s meat inflation slowed sharply in January, according to the latest AIMS Meat Inflation Report, although upward pressure is expected to return as Ramadan approaches. The Jan...
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GB Prime Cattle Prices Slip as Numbers Rise

Prime Cattle Prices Ease as Lamb Trade Weakens in GB GB prime cattle prices came under pressure in late January as higher numbers forward weighed on the market. lamb prices continued to soften amid weaker domestic and export demand. In the week ending 31 January, the GB deadwe...
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Pig Sector Welcomes EFRA Push to Protect UK Standards

NPA Welcomes EFRA Committee Recommendations on EU-UK SPS Deal The National Pig Association has welcomed a new report from Parliament’s EFRA Committee on the ongoing negotiations for a UK-EU sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement, urging the government to adopt safeguards...
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Irish Pig Prices Under Pressure as Slaughter Volumes Rise

Pig Prices Fall 15% Year on Year Despite Strong Supply Irish pig prices continued to ease in late January as strong slaughter throughput coincided with growing downward pressure across European markets. For the week ending 24 January, the average reported deadweight price for ...
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UK Urged to Protect Farm Standards in EU Negotiations

UK Government Urged to Seek Carve Outs in EU Trade Deal The UK government has been urged to seek specific carve-outs from EU regulatory alignment in ongoing trade talks, amid warnings that British farmers could be undercut by lower-standard imports. In a new report, the Enviro...
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UK Abattoir Numbers Plummet to 203

Loss of Local Abattoirs Hits Farmers and Welfare The number of licensed abattoirs operating in the UK has fallen to just 203, down from around 2,500 in the 1970s, raising concerns over animal welfare, farmer viability and local food supply chains. According to Sustainable Food...
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Biosecurity, Beef and Poultry Shape a Volatile Week for the Meat Trade

Meat Industry News Roundup: UK, Ireland, and Global Developments February 4, 2026 This report provides a summary of key news and developments within the meat industry over the past week, with a focus on the United Kingdom, Ireland, and the global market. The information has be...
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AHDB Expands Pork Promotion After Record Results

AHDB Launches Expanded British Pork Marketing Campaign The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has confirmed the return of its flagship pork campaign, “This is British pork. But not as you know it”, with an expanded programme designed to keep pork relevan...
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QMS Campaign Aims to Drive Shoppers Back to Local Butchers

Quality Meat Scotland Launches New Campaign to Support Local Butchers Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) has launched a new multi-channel marketing campaign. The campaign is aimed at boosting footfall for independent butchers and supporting members of the Scotch Butchers Club. The ca...
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Extreme Weather Disrupts Australian Cattle and Sheep Trade

Extreme Heat Disrupts Australian Cattle and Sheep Markets Unseasonal extreme heat across eastern Australia caused widespread saleyard closures this week, significantly disrupting livestock market reporting and weighing on price indicators. According to Meat & Livestock Aus...
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Cattle Steady as Lamb Prices Ease in Weekly Trade

UK Cattle and Sheep Markets Show Mixed Momentum The latest weekly cattle and sheep market wrap highlights a mixed picture across UK livestock markets. Cattle prices are broadly steady, lamb values remain under pressure due to higher throughput and variable demand. According to...
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Live Cattle Movements from Republic of Ireland to NI Halted

Bluetongue Halts Live Cattle Trade Between ROI and NI The movement of live cattle and sheep from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland has been suspended. This follows the confirmation of bluetongue virus (BTV) cases in the south. According to Farmers Journal, the restri...
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UK Sheep Meat and Dairy Find Growth in Middle East

AHDB Sees Strong Export Potential in MENA Markets Export prospects for UK sheep meat and dairy into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region are strengthening. This growth is driven by population growth, rising incomes and limited domestic food production capacity. Accor...
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FSA Seeks Evidence on Meat Inspection Charging Rules

FSA Launches Call for Evidence on Meat Official Controls Charges The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has launched a call for evidence on the Meat Official Controls Charges (England) Amendment Regulations 2019, inviting feedback from operators of approved meat establishments in Eng...
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Smuggled Meat Poses Growing Biosecurity Risk

BMPA Warns of Rising Illegal Meat Trade The UK meat industry is facing a growing biosecurity threat from the illegal importation of meat products. This follows a sharp rise in seizures at ports and warnings from industry bodies. According to an update from British Meat Process...
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Shannon Halal Meat Processor Placed Into Receivership

Shannon-Based Halal Meat Operator Asba Meats Enters Receivership A Shannon-based halal meat processor has entered receivership, marking the second such appointment within four months for the Irish meat sector. According to reporting by Agriland, receivers from Deloitte Ireland...
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Poultry Fraud Case Triggers Fresh FSA Warning

Food Fraud Risks Underlined by Illegal Poultry Case The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a renewed warning to the food industry to remain vigilant against food fraud. This follows the jailing of a man involved in the illegal trade of poultry products valued at more than ...
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Poultry Drives 4% Growth in China’s Meat Output

China’s Meat Production Grew Over 4% in 2025, Led by Poultry China’s total meat and poultry output rose 4.2% in 2025, reaching 100.72 million tonnes, with poultry production driving the majority of growth, according to official figures released by the China State Statistic...
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DEFRA Issues Fresh Avian Influenza Update

Avian Influenza Update: England Maintains Heightened Biosecurity Measures The UK government has issued its latest update on avian influenza (bird flu) in England. It confirmed that enhanced surveillance and biosecurity controls remain in force. Meanwhile, authorities continue ...
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Ostrich Meat Gains Ground in UAE Protein Strategy

UAE Ostrich Meat Production Expands as Food Security Drive Accelerates The United Arab Emirates is expanding ostrich meat production as part of its wider food security strategy. For example, a farm in Al Ain now produces around 75 tonnes of ostrich meat per year. According to ...
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Retailer Backs British Chicken With Major Funding Boost

M&S Invests Further in UK Chicken Sector Marks & Spencer has announced a significant expansion of its investment in British chicken farming, increasing support to the sector by 33%, equivalent to £36 million. The retailer said the move reflects strong growth in sales ...
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Meatex Goes Zero Commission

Meatex Launches Zero Commission Marketplace for the Food Trade Trade only platform removes fees and commissions, giving suppliers full control and higher margins. This zero commission food marketplace empowers businesses to keep more of their profits while accessing a wider cu...
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Tight Supply Continues to Support UK Cattle Prices

UK Cattle and Sheep Markets Show Mixed Trends This Week UK cattle and sheep markets delivered a mixed performance this week, with cattle prices generally steady to slightly firmer, while lamb values showed variation depending on quality and region. According to the latest upda...
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Australian Lamb Prices Lift as Supply Tightens

Cattle Prices Ease While Lamb Strengthens in Australian Market Australian cattle markets softened in the week to 23 January, with all major indicators easing except restocker steers, while lamb prices strengthened as reduced supply met firm buyer demand. According to the lates...
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EU Pork Prices Hit Three Year Low

EU Pork Prices Plunge as Rising Production Weighs on Market EU pork prices have fallen to their lowest level since March 2022, as rising production and market disruption combine to place heavy downward pressure on values across the bloc. According to the latest market update f...
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Australian Beef Exports Hit New Highs in 2025

Australian Beef Exports Break New Ground in 2025 Australia’s beef export sector delivered a standout performance in 2025, achieving record or near-record outcomes across multiple international markets. This happened as global demand strengthened and supply constraints eased....
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AHDB Boosts Export Firepower in Asia and Africa

AHDB Expands Export Team to Support Red Meat Trade in Asia and Africa Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has strengthened its international capability with the appointment of Henry Glover as Senior Trade Development Manager, boosting support for British red ...
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Tariff Free Poultry Deal Sparks NFU Backlash

NFU Raises Concerns Over Extended Tariff Free Access for Ukrainian Poultry The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has raised strong concerns over the UK government’s decision to extend tariff-free access for Ukrainian poultry and eggs by a further two years, warning of pote...
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US Pushes UK to Drop Hormone Beef Ban

US Pressures UK to Ease Meat Import Barriers in Trade Talks The United States is increasing pressure on the UK to relax EU-aligned food import rules that currently block hormone-treated American beef and pork, as trade negotiations between the two countries continue. The Trump...
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MLA Maps Future of Red Meat on Australian Menus

MLA Launches Rare Medium 2026 to Shape Future of Red Meat on Australian Menus Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has launched Rare Medium 2026, its latest long-term foodservice trends report. This is designed to guide how red meat will feature on Australian menus over the ne...
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China Reopens Market to Canadian Beef

China Lifts Ban on Canadian Beef, Reopening Key Export Market China has officially lifted its ban on Canadian beef. This reopens a major export market that had been closed since an atypical BSE case was identified in Canada in December 2021. The decision restores access to wha...
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Irish Beef Prices Steady as Supply Remains Tight

Irish Factory Beef Prices Hold Firm This Week Irish factory beef prices have held steady this week, with most processors maintaining quotes at similar levels to the previous week despite ongoing concerns around cattle availability. According to reporting by Agriland.ie, steer ...
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Irish Factory Beef Prices Surge Year on Year

Forequarter Beef Prices Jump Over 40% in 2025 Factory beef sale prices in Ireland recorded substantial year on year growth in 2025, reflecting a firm pricing environment across the beef supply chain, according to new data published by the Agri-Food Regulator. Notably, factory ...
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Australia: Weather Chaos Drives Volatile Cattle and Sheep Trade

Flooding and Firm Demand Shake Australian Livestock Markets Extreme weather across Queensland and Victoria disrupted saleyard operations and buyer attendance this week, leading to uneven yardings and increased price volatility across cattle and sheep markets. Restocker demand ...
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Tight Supplies Keep Cattle and Lamb Prices Firm

Supply Constraints Underpin Livestock Prices UK cattle and sheep markets remained well supported over the past week, with tight livestock availability continuing to underpin prices, according to the latest market wrap from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AH...
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Processors Frustrated by Delay to Automated Sheep Grading

New English Regulations Mandate Sheep Carcase Classification New regulations in England now require mandatory sheep carcase classification and price reporting for large abattoirs. This brings the sheep sector further into line with existing rules for beef and pork. According t...
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UK Secures Negligible BSE Risk Status for Beef

UK Achieves Negligible BSE Risk Status, Boosting Beef Export Hopes The United Kingdom’s beef industry has received a major boost with the official recognition that it holds negligible risk status for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE). The decision, confirmed by EU m...
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UK Slaughter Data Ends 2025 on Mixed Note

Monthly UK Slaughter Statistics Show Mixed End to 2025 Latest official figures show a mixed picture for UK meat production at the end of 2025. Higher beef and pigmeat output offset this, but there are continued declines in sheep and prime cattle slaughter. Data published by th...
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UK Meat Output Mixed as Cattle and Sheep Numbers Fall

UK Slaughter Statistics Show Mixed Results for December 2025 Published 15 January 2026 The latest statistics from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA ) indicate a mixed performance for the UK’s meat production sector in December 2025. While ov...
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North America Opens Door for British Meat and Dairy

Premium British Food Finds Growing US Demand Growing demand in North America is creating significant export opportunities for British red meat and dairy, according to new analysis from Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB). The report points to strong interest ...
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Kepak Reviews Clonee Operations as Beef Supply Tightens

Kepak Reassesses Deboning Capacity at Clonee Site Kepak Group is reviewing its beef deboning and cutting operations at its Clonee facility in County Meath. This is due to ongoing supply constraints in the Irish beef sector, according to reporting by Agriland. Kepak said it cur...
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Sheep Carcase Classification Rules Take Effect

New Sheep Carcase Classification Rules Come Into Force New regulations mandating classification and price reporting for sheep carcases came into effect on Monday 12 January 2026. This brings the sheep sector in line with existing rules for beef and pork. The measures, introduc...
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Christmas Lamb Sales Jump as Turkey Loses Ground

Lamb Sales Surge Over Christmas as Turkey Declines, AHDB Reports UK shoppers shifted their festive meat choices over Christmas 2025. Lamb volumes went up 17.2% while turkey sales fell. This is according to new consumer insight from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development ...
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Government Consults on Stronger Hen and Lamb Welfare Standards

New UK Plans Announced to Improve Welfare for Laying Hens and Lambs The UK government has set out new proposals to improve animal welfare standards for laying hens and lambs, opening an eight-week consultation on changes that would affect poultry and sheep producers across the...
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BSE Legacy Still Shapes UK Beef Economics

Has the UK Beef Industry Recovered 30 Years After BSE? Thirty years after the BSE crisis, questions are being raised over whether the UK beef industry has ever fully recovered. This is according to analysis from Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV). While farmgate beef prices are ...
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EU Moves Toward Signing Mercosur Trade Deal

EU Countries Move Closer to Signing Mercosur Trade Deal Several EU member states are expected to clear the way for the signing of the EU–Mercosur trade agreement. This is despite opposition from farming groups and divisions within the bloc, according to Reuters. The deal, wh...
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Tight livestock numbers continue to support prices

UK Cattle and Sheep Markets Hold Firm as Supply Tightens UK cattle and sheep markets remained firm this week, with prices supported by tight availability and steady demand, according to the latest weekly market update from AHDB. Cattle values continue to reflect limited number...
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NI Beef Farmers Renew Calls for Fairer Prices

Price Gap Persists for NI Beef Producers Calls are growing for fairer pricing for Northern Ireland beef producers, nearly 30 years after the 1996 BSE crisis reshaped the UK and Irish beef sectors, according to reporting by Agriland. Industry voices argue that, despite improved...
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US Meat Data Firm Ends Worker Wage Lawsuit

Agri Stats Settles Meat Industry Wage Fixing Case US data firm Agri Stats has agreed to settle a lawsuit alleging it helped coordinate wage suppression across the meat processing industry, according to reporting by Reuters. The case accused Agri Stats of facilitating the shari...
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Mercosur Deal: What’s at Stake for EU Farmers

Why the EU–Mercosur Trade Deal Divides Europe The EU–Mercosur trade agreement aims to create one of the world’s largest free trade areas between the EU and the Mercosur bloc Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay, but it remains one of the most controversial trade deals...
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UK Eases Controls on Brazilian Meat Imports

UK Lifts Reinforced Controls on Brazilian Meat Imports The UK has lifted reinforced import controls on consignments of beef, poultry meat, meat products, and meat preparations exported from Brazil to Great Britain. The change, confirmed by the UK Government, means Brazilian me...
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EU Beef Supply Set to Shrink by 2035

EU Beef Output Set to Fall Sharply by 2035 EU red meat production is forecast to decline significantly over the next decade, according to new outlook data published by AHDB. The European Commission projects a 9.2% fall in EU beef production by 2035, equivalent to a reduction o...
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British Meat Exports to EU Hit Record £1.65 Billion

British Meat Exports to EU Reach Record £1.65bn as SPS Deal Sought British meat exports to the European Union reached a record £1.65 billion in 2024, underlining the EU’s continued importance as the UK’s largest overseas market for meat products. Figures highlighted duri...
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Irish Cattle Market Update

Cattle Trade & Prices: Irish Throughput Tightens as Prices Ease Ireland | Week ending 13 December Throughput Cattle supplies for processing in Ireland remain tight, driven by a combination of lower numbers of slaughter age cattle on farms and reduced cow throughput. Total ...
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Latest Bird Flu Situation in England

Avian Influenza Update: Latest Bird Flu Situation in England UK | Government Update The UK government has confirmed ongoing cases of avian influenza (bird flu) in England, with disease control measures remaining in force to limit the spread among poultry and captive birds. Acc...
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Brazilian Beef Recall Fuels Mercosur Concerns

Brazilian Beef Recalled in Ireland After Banned Hormone Detected Brazilian beef has been recalled from the Irish food chain after testing identified the presence of Oestradiol 17ß, a banned growth hormone in the European Union. This has reignited political and industry concer...
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Factories Hold Firm as Irish Cattle Prices Ease

Irish Cattle Prices Under Pressure as Factories Adopt Tough Stance Irish cattle prices have come under renewed pressure at the start of 2026. Meat processors are reported to be taking a “take it or leave it” approach to procurement, despite reduced slaughter numbers. Accor...
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Australian Beef Exporters Rethink Strategy After China Beef Quotas

Australian Beef Exports Threatened by New Chinese Trade Restrictions The Australian beef industry is facing the potential loss of A$1 billion in exports due to new global safeguard measures announced by China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM ). The measures, which are appl...
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Sophie Throup Appointed NFU Director General

Sophie Throup Named NFU Director General Sophie Throup has been appointed as the next Director General of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), succeeding Terry Jones when he steps down in spring 2026. Throup will join the NFU from Myton Food Group, where she has served as ...
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Irish sheep market update

Irish Sheep Market Update Week ending: 6 December 2025 | Ireland Overview Irish lamb prices held broadly steady this week, with base quotes unchanged and paid prices showing modest improvement. However, the trade continues to run behind December 2024 levels, while tightening s...
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China’s Beef Safeguards Reshape Global Trade

China’s Beef Safeguards Shake Global Meat Trade, Forcing Exporters to Rethink Strategy China has introduced safeguard measures on imported beef. These are set to reshape global meat trade flows and force major exporters to reassess market strategies over the next three years...
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Beer Waste Used to Grow Cultivated Meat

UCL Scientists Develop Cultivated Meat Scaffolds from Beer Waste Researchers at University College London (UCL) have developed a novel technique to create edible scaffolds for cultivated meat. They use spent yeast from beer brewing, offering a potential breakthrough in one of ...
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QMS Calls for Confidence in Scotland’s Red Meat Sector

QMS Calls for Unity and Confidence in Scotland’s Red Meat Industry in 2026 Quality Meat Scotland has urged the Scottish red meat sector to enter 2026 with confidence, collaboration and a renewed focus on value, as the industry navigates tight livestock supplies, market volat...
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Vietnam Opens Door to Irish Beef Exports

Vietnamese Market Now Open to Irish Beef Exports The Vietnamese market has officially opened to Irish beef exports, marking a significant expansion of Ireland’s access to fast-growing Asian food markets. This development is a major step forward for Irish beef exports in Viet...
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British Meat Faces EU Market Access Test

British Meat Industry Faces Adapt-or-Lose-EU Challenge The British meat industry must make significant production and processing changes if it is to regain or maintain access to EU markets, according to analysis from Euromeat News. Since Brexit, raw minced meat products from G...
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Irish Farmers Plan Major Protest Over Mercosur Deal

Irish Farm Organisations Plan Major Protest Against EU–Mercosur Trade Deal Several Irish farm organisations have confirmed plans to take part in a major protest later this month. They are opposing the proposed EU–Mercosur trade agreement, as expectations grow that the deal...
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UK Beef Export Access to US Secured for 2026

US Reciprocal Beef Quota for UK Exporters Confirmed for 2026 The US Federal Register has formally confirmed the allocation of a 13,000-tonne beef tariff-rate quota for UK exporters. This allows the UK–US reciprocal beef quota arrangement to operate in full from 2026, accordi...
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Waitrose Raises Welfare Bar for Imported Meats

Waitrose Sets New Welfare Standards for Continental Meats Waitrose has announced that all of its own-brand continental meat products now meet higher animal welfare standards, marking a first for a UK supermarket in this category. The retailer, part of the John Lewis Partnershi...
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Meat Snacks Remain a UK Protein Growth Category

UK Meat Snacks Market Forecast to Grow to £557m by 2033 The UK meat snacks category is set for strong long-term growth, with market value forecast to rise from £335 million in 2024 to more than £557 million by 2033, according to new analysis from Research and Markets. The m...
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JBS to Close Swift Beef Plant in California

JBS Announces Closure of California Beef Plant JBS USA, a subsidiary of the world’s largest meat processing company, has announced the permanent closure of its Swift Beef Company packing facility in Riverside, California. The plant is scheduled to cease operations on Feb...
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UK-EU Reset Deal Delivers Boost to Food Trade

UK–EU Reset Deal Delivers Boost to Food Trade The UK and EU have agreed a reset package. It is aimed at improving food and agricultural trade flows and easing friction for exporters and importers on both sides of the Channel. The agreement focuses on reducing checks, paperwo...
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UK Cattle and Sheep Prices Show Signs of Stability

UK Cattle Prices Stall, Cow Values Climb Amidst Stable Sheep Market The latest market analysis from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) indicates a pause in the upward momentum of Great Britain’s deadweight cattle prices in the week ending May 3rd. ...
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