Live cattle exports have not been affected by the coronavirus outbreaks, as of now. Demand for stock is not affected but transport difficulties could arise.

Strict biosecurity procedures have been in place for years, for truck drivers and also requiring careful washing out of trucks. These are mainly in place to prevent spread of livestock disease from country to country.

Exporters have told the Irish Farmers Journal that they are now following additional measures to prevent spread of COVID-19 as well, after getting necessary advice.

Exports of calves continue to the main markets which include Holland, Spain, France and Belgium. There have been cases of the coronavirus in all of these markets and the situation in each country is changing daily.

Exports to Italy in 2020 have been small and are mainly older cattle. Again, the exporters involved have obtained the necessary biosecurity advice and are taking heightened care.

It helps that the destination points for these exports are farms in rural areas.