The live export trade is set to see a welcome lift in competition with a number of new faces competing for livestock in the coming weeks. Western Livestock Exports, set up by Arthur Bredin of Progressive Genetics and his son Pearse, have started sourcing cattle for live export to Italy. They are targeting a couple of consignments before Christmas and hoping to increase volume and frequency in the new year. He said: “There is keen demand for Irish cattle. It really comes down to price.”

Curzon livestock is currently sourcing bulls for the Libyan market. The Cork-based company, run by the Horgan family, is well accustomed to live exports to north African markets, having exported cattle to Libya and Egypt throughout the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s.

James Horgan said the company is currently sourcing continental and coloured bulls in the 300kg to 420kg weight category, with a shipment planned this side of Christmas. He said they hope to have a vessel approved for shipping in the new year and hope to expand into exports of finished cattle, stores and weanlings, both continental and Friesian bred.

Price competitiveness

After a strong start to the year, live exports from Ireland to Italian and Libyan markets have come under pressure in recent months. Exports to Libya were limited by political unrest and instability, but market conditions have improved in recent weeks, opening the door for increased exports.

Pending approval

The Department of Agriculture confirmed to the Irish Farmers Journal that there are currently two dedicated “walk-on” vessels approved for non-EU live export of livestock from Irish sea ports. Two further dedicated vessels have recently been inspected by an independent marine surveyor and a Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine veterinary inspector and reports have issued to the owners.