For the first time since 2017, the prices per kilo being paid in the autumn for prime cattle in NI are ahead of that being paid for lamb.
Analysis of price data for prime cattle and lambs in NI since 2007, shows that, on average, lamb price tends to be 26% ahead of that for beef cattle. This time last year, U3 steers were paid just over 490p/kg, with factory quotes for lambs at 610p/kg, a gap of 120p/kg. The year previous, the gap in September was around the 55p/kg mark.
Slipped back
In recent weeks, the prices being paid for lambs have slipped back gradually while beef has remained steady, with average prices paid for U3 grades in and around 655p/kg.
Earlier this week, factories had indicated base quotes for lambs could drop to 630p/kg. However, fewer lambs in the marts has helped steady the trade, with quotes at 640p/kg and 650p/kg potentially available for larger numbers.
Local factories continue to quote base quotes for U-3 grading cattle of around 636p/kg, however, that remains at least 20p/kg off what is actually being paid to farmers.
See Northern View on p71
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