Sheepmeat exports slip by 5%: CSO

IRISH sheepmeat exports declined by 5% or almost 2,000 tonnes for the first eight months of 2006 compared to the same period last year, according to latest Central Statistics Office figures.

This decrease reflects a 3% fall in throughput levels for the January to August period, as well as strong home market demand so far this year.

An Bord Bia said France remains Ireland’s main export market, importing almost 21,000 tonnes of Irish produce between January and August. This was down 7% or 1,500 tonnes relative to last year as demand has been lower in France in 2006.