The latest figures issued by FTMTA in relation to registrations of new tractors in the Republic of Ireland show a sector that held its own during 2016, despite very challenging market conditions driven by weak agricultural commodity pricing.

The Brexit factor did have an impact late in the year also. The level of new tractor registrations during 2016 was effectively unchanged on 2015, with a slight decrease of two units resulting in a total of 1,876 new tractors registered last year.

Cork continued to be the county enjoying the highest level of registrations, with 211 units. Tipperary, Galway, Wexford and Clare saw the registration of 149, 122, 116 and 102 units respectively.

Horsepower

The growth in the horsepower of the average new tractor sold in the Irish market has been very marked in recent years and over 87% of all tractors registered during 2016 had 101hp or greater, with over 46% having power of 121hp or greater.

To be compliant with EU competition regulations, the FTMTA is not permitted to release market share information, for a given year until 12 months has elapsed.

At this time, FTMTA is able to release market share information relating to 2015. During 2015, John Deere and New Holland were in effect tied as the market leaders, with approximately 20% of the market each and only two units separating the brands.

Massey Ferguson, Case IH and Claas had 17%, 9% and 7.5% respectively. The top three brands in the Irish market should remain in-situ, with Massey Ferguson expected to challenge for at least a top two finish this year.

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