Cattle Prices Hit Record Highs: 40% Increases!

The latest data on agricultural product prices in Ireland revealed a significant increase in 2025. Notably, the record increase of cattle prices by 40.7% stands out as the main reason for this rise. These important changes in the agricultural sector have broad implications for both producers and consumers.

According to analyses, general agricultural product prices saw an increase of 15.1% in 2025 compared to 2024. This situation indicates a rise in production costs and market fluctuations. The significant increase in animal products has also affected milk and sheep prices. Milk prices increased by 5.4% year-on-year, and sheep prices also rose by 5.4%. Thus, animal production in the agricultural sector has surpassed plant production.

Additionally, chicken prices have also affected consumers with a 2.6% rise. The increase in animal products has a notable impact on overall food inflation as well. Meanwhile, certain products like potato prices present a contrasting picture. Potato prices have declined by 14.8% year-on-year, drawing attention.

Other staple products such as grain and pork have also experienced declines; grain prices have decreased by 3.1%, and pork prices have dropped by the same rate. This situation is seen as part of a larger picture affecting the balance of agricultural products. The challenges faced by producers and the rising costs create significant inflationary pressures on food items.

Changes in vegetable and fruit prices have emerged with a limited increase of only 0.7%. These figures reflect the difficulties encountered in food production and the balance of supply and demand. Overall, the apparent trend of rising animal products results in plant production lagging behind and poses significant risks to food security.