Future looks bright for EU cattle farms as beef shortage grows

SHRINKING herds, strong levels of beef consumption, and limited increases in imports spell good market prospects for EU cattle farmers, according to the European Commission.

“Prospects for agricultural markets and income 2006-2013” has been published in Brussels, pointing to a 71% increase in the gap between the EU’s beef and veal production and consumption, between now and 2010. But beef imports are projected to increase by only 26%.

This year, the EU is predicted to produce 7,967,000 tonnes of beef carcase weight equivalent. Live imports and live exports leave net production at 7,932,000 tonnes.