Live Exports To The Netherlands Remain Buoyant
IRELAND - Following the strength of Irish calf exports to the Netherlands in 2009, early indications suggest that 2010 seems set to see a continuation of this trend. In 2009, Irish calf exports destined for the Dutch veal sector reached a five year high, where a total of 69,000 calves were exported for the year.
27 April 2010
1 minute read
In the first three months of 2010, nearly 40,000 Irish calves have been exported to the Netherlands. In the context of our exports performance over the last three years this represents a 280 per cent lift in shipments compared to 2008.
The Netherlands is the largest veal producer within Europe and has a capacity to process over 1.4 million veal animals per annum. Every year, Dutch veal farmers import approximately 770,000 new born calves, the vast majority of which are sourced from their neighbouring market; Germany. According to the latest figures released from the PVE a total of 241,000 new born calves were imported in the first three months of this year. Germany remains the leading supplier of these calves, followed by Poland and then Ireland. The continuation of a ban on British calves due to TB has meant that no live exports have taken place since late 2008.
Overall, the outlook remains promising for Irish livestock exporters as an anticipated fall in dairy and beef production in Europe should lead towards an overall shortage of newborn calves. Irish livestock exporters have earned a strong reputation for delivering high quality calves and with an ability to compete in the Dutch veal sector, we remain a formidable player in the market.
In 2009, Irish live cattle exports were valued at €158million
TheCattleSite News Desk
