Irish Dairy Calf Exports Reach Over 194,000 in 2024
Source: The DairyNews
According to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), Irish dairy calf exports have reached over 194,000 this year, with buyers from eight different countries. The primary export season occurs in the first half of the year, with a significant drop in numbers during the second half.
DAFM data indicates that 194,301 calves were exported in the first 30 weeks of this year. Of these, 194,061 calves were shipped to eight key markets.
Despite a 4% overall decline in calf exports, the Netherlands remains the largest market, purchasing over 77,400 Irish calves. This represents a 27% decrease from previous years.
The table below details calf export numbers in the first 30 weeks of this year:
Stakeholders in the Irish calf trade have expressed concerns about potential restrictions in the Netherlands market post-2025, which could impact future export volumes.
Table by agriland.ie
