Beef prices up further 5-8c/kg as trade remains buoyant

"The prices being paid were never so high, and still the factory agents are still having to throw every kind of sweetener into deals to get cattle these weeks," explained one finisher.

The base for steers has increased to 620-630c/kg, with some reports of 635c/kg being paid this week. The base for heifers is ranging 630-640c/kg.

The 'perfect' balance, from the perspective of producers, as factory demand exceeds supply, is continuing to retain control of the beef market for suppliers.

Despite the strong intake of cattle at the processing plants for early February, the pressure continues to source sufficient to satisfy market demand and remains the catalyst driving the prices upwards week on week.