Trade for Friesian bull calves has been quite turbulent over the last seven days. The second half of last week saw little activity from export buyers, as disruption to boats reduced demand for this type of calf.

This saw the average price back €7/head on the week to €53/head. However, much of this is coming from the second half of last week. This is also reflected in the fact that there were 15% fewer Friesian bull calves traded compared with the previous week, as more farmers held on to calves during the disruption.

With sailings getting moving again since Saturday, there has been an increase in buyer activity in recent days, with reports of prices up €10/head to €15/head as a result.

Demand for Angus- and Hereford-bred calves remains strong, despite numbers increasing week on week.

Angus and Hereford heifers averaged €178/head and €203/head respectively, while bulls made €208/head and €239/head.

Belgian Blue heifer calves continue to be an outstanding trade, up a further €28/head this week to an average price of €343/head.