The Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) has announced Arable NI 2026, a new event organised by representatives from UAS, UFU and CAFRE. The event is scheduled for 3 June 2026 on a farm in the Moira area of County Down. Further details will be released via press and social media. The organising committee includes members from UAS, UFU and CAFRE.

UFU potato and cereal representatives met with the Irish Farmers' Association to discuss challenges such as poor prices and supply chain disruptions from high import levels. UFU has written to local potato packers and processors requesting support for local produce before imports. UFU also met DAERA officials on a draft support document for cereal and potato growers. UFU policy committees are assessing stabilisation measures, with negotiations ongoing.

UFU submitted a response on behalf of cereal growers to a DEFRA-led consultation on contract practices in combinable crops, involving DAERA and other UK administrations. The consultation gathered evidence on supply chain operations, and UFU encouraged grower participation. Findings are awaited. UFU continues meetings with DEFRA and DAERA on the SPS UK/EU agreement to resolve GB-NI anomalies.

The vegetable sector faces costs of £4000 to £10,000 per Article 53 Emergency Use application, adding bureaucracy. UFU is discussing funding with DAERA. Horticulture Crop Protection offers assistance to members of relevant crop associations. Workshops on sprayer operators and quality assurance, attended by growers for CPD points, were well-received.

From 1 February 2026, equine establishments must register for an Equine Establishment Number when applying for or updating horse passports. UFU reminds farmers of this legal requirement to avoid delays in selling, moving or exporting equines.

UFU reminds professional users of plant protection products of requirements under The Official Controls (Plant Protection Products) Regulations Northern Ireland 2020. Registration is available on the DAERA website. UFU is discussing transition to electronic record-keeping with DAERA.