Northern Ireland beef prices have declined this spring. Factory quotes fell from 630-640p/kg in early January to 600-610p/kg in recent weeks, a drop of 20-30p/kg.

The DAERA Agricultural Market Report for the week ending 4 April 2026 listed average prices at 627.9p/kg for steers, 629.0p/kg for heifers, 608.5p/kg for young bulls and 498.9p/kg for cows.

Prime cattle slaughterings in Northern Ireland decreased from 57,086 head in 2025 to 54,748 head in 2026 by late February. Average prime carcase weights increased from 337.7kg to 350.7kg. Total beef production fell by 0.4%.

Imports from the Republic of Ireland for direct slaughter rose 4.3% above last year's levels by early April. UK imports from Australia, New Zealand and Brazil added to market pressure.

Retail beef volumes dropped 6.5% over 12 weeks, with primary beef down 9.1% and processed beef down 6.8%, despite an 8.8% rise in spend.

Beef finishers face losses around £200 per head. A 550kg continental steer bought last autumn at 400p/kg for £2,200 would return about £2,570 at current prices, but costs lead to a £196 loss per head. Store cattle prices for 300-400kg steers and heifers exceeded 2025 levels in early 2026.

GB steer prices averaged 636.1p/kg and heifer prices 633.8p/kg in the week ending 4 April, compared to Northern Ireland's 627.9p/kg and 629.0p/kg.