Calf exports were up 11% compared to 2024 levels according to data from Bord Bia, with 223,421 calves sold out of the state in 2025. The Netherlands and Spain were the primary destinations, as three quarters of all calves were exported there last year.

Despite concerns earlier in 2024 that infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) restrictions might see the Dutch move away from sourcing Irish calves, the Netherlands remained the principal outlet, with 84,000 calves going there in 2025. This was a lift of 9% compared to 2024.

New rules around importing cattle from countries that don’t have an IBR control programme have been postponed there until 1 July 2026.

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If the Netherlands is closed off to calves from Ireland, then Irish farmers will be looking to Spain to increase their market share. Demand there has grown considerably in recent years.

Spanish buyers came close to gaining the top spot as they bought 83,000 calves in Ireland last year, up 12% compared to 2024.

Poland slotted into the top three markets for Irish calves. At 26,000 head, it accounted for close to 12% of the total number of calves shipped and experienced the biggest percentage rise in demand at 64% compared to 2024. Rounding out the top five outlets were Italy at 18,000 head and Northern Ireland with 7,000 head.

Demand from Italian buyers was similar to 2024 with their market share up by 2%, while there was greater demand from Northern Ireland. Calf numbers going there increased by 36% compared to 2024.