EU-15 countries to increase beef imports in 2006
The return of cow beef three weeks ago to the UK market was feared by Irish exporters, but the latest EU Beef Forecasting group figures indicate that Europe will "soak up" all but 40,000 tonnes of the over 30 months UK beef.
The shortfall between EU-15 beef production and consumption will remain significant in 2006, at around 350,000 tonnes. With production falling in France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden, prospects are encouraging for Irish exporters.
In 2005, Ireland is the only country to increase its trade to Italy, where imports will continue to grow by 5% in 2006.
Imports are expected to grow by more than 10% in France, 6% in Sweden, and 3% in Denmark.
How much of this beef will come from Brazil, the world's No 1 exporter, depends on progress in eradicating foot and mouth disease there.
About 50 countries, including the EU, have totally or partially banned imports of Brazilian beef and pork.
The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) had recorded 24 outbreaks of foot and mouth in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul up to November 17. There were also nine suspected outbreaks in the state of Parana.
The Agriculture Ministry said abattoir activity in Matto Grosso do Sul, the country's second main beef exporter, had fallen by 76% since the outbreak of disease.
However, some other beef industry sources said abattoir activity only dropped 50%, when clandestine operations were taken into account.
Agriculture Minister Roberto Rodrigues has called for a foot and mouth eradication program for the whole of South America. Otherwise, Brazil would continue to be at risk from outbreaks of the disease, he said.
