The number of sheep slaughtered in NI has seen a significant decline in 2025. Up to the week ending 18 October, a total of 286,407 hoggets and lambs were slaughtered, representing a 16% reduction (52,955 head) compared to the same period in 2024. A similar downward trend was observed in sheep exports sent directly for slaughter in ROI, with a 29% decrease (76,330 head) compared to the same period in 2024. Sheep exports to Britain have increased by 18,085 head during the same period in 2025, driven by higher lamb prices compared to NI and ROI markets.