Record-Breaking Calf Prices and Agricultural Market Trends in Early 2024
TL;DR: In the first week of February 2024, Oklahoma witnessed a new record in calf prices, with 500-pound steers reaching an unprecedented $321.34 per hundredweight (cwt), eclipsing the former record set in November 2014. Throughout February, these calves have maintained an impressive average price of $323.64/cwt. Meanwhile, 800-pound steers have been trading at an average […]
Dannevirke Cattle Fair Sees Strong Results Despite Reduced Numbers
TL;DR: On February 15, the Dannevirke 15-month cattle fair showcased a notable reduction in the number of traditional steers and heifers, continuing a trend observed in recent years. Despite the smaller turnout, the fair witnessed strong results, buoyed by the interest of a select group of buyers from Manawatū and Hawke’s Bay. The fair, which […]
Banking Inquiry: A Call for Transparency and Fairness in Rural Banking
TL;DR: Federated Farmers of New Zealand is pushing for the commencement of an independent inquiry into the state of rural banking. The organisation has expressed concerns over the uncertainty many farmers face regarding whether the interest rates they are charged are fair and reasonable. This call for action is driven by the lack of transparency […]
Challenges Loom Despite Surge in Australian Cattle Exports to China
TL;DR: In January, Australian cattle exports to China experienced a significant increase, reaching a record 28,806 head, the highest monthly volume since records began in 2016. This surge included two large shipments from Australian exporters, primarily of dairy heifers and Angus and Hereford breeding cattle. Despite this uptick, the market conditions in China presented a […]
Stability in Beef Prices Despite Recent Drops, as Queensland Prepares for Increased Slaughter Rates
TL;DR: In the wake of a 10c/kg decrease last week, beef grid prices across Eastern Australia have found a steady footing this week. Queensland processors currently offer 500-510c/kg for heavy cows and 550c/kg for heavy grass four-tooth steers, with Central Queensland rates closely matching or trailing by 10c. This price stabilisation comes amidst expectations of […]
Live Sheep Export Uncertainty Affects Investment Amid Emerging New Markets
TL;DR: The Australian live sheep export industry is currently facing a period of uncertainty due to the Federal Government’s proposed timeline for phasing out live sheep exports by sea. This uncertainty is affecting investment decisions at a time when new markets for Australian sheep and cattle are beginning to emerge. Geoff Pearson, president of the […]
Australian Red Meat Industry Hits Record Production in Beef and Lamb
TL;DR: In 2023, the Australian red meat industry celebrated another milestone year, setting new records in both lamb and beef production. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released figures showing a remarkable increase in meat production, with lamb production reaching 246,003 tonnes, a 12.05% rise from the previous year. This surge was highlighted by the […]
Resilience of New Zealand’s Lamb Industry Amid Challenges
TL;DR: Nathan Guy, a figure synonymous with New Zealand’s agricultural leadership, casts a reflective eye over the journey and resilience of the nation’s lamb industry. From the historic voyage of the Dunedin to the present day, New Zealand has carved out a reputation as a global frontrunner in food exports, with lamb being a cornerstone […]
Opting for Budget Seed Could Cost Farmers More, PBRA Advises
TL;DR: Farmers considering cost-saving measures by selecting lower-priced common seeds for re-grassing and cropping this autumn are being advised to think again. The NZ Plant Breeders and Research Association (PBRA) has issued a warning about the potential pitfalls of opting for such seeds over modern, proprietary alternatives. According to the PBRA, the allure of saving […]
MFAT Highlights Shipping Delays Amidst Global Trade Challenges
TL;DR: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) has issued a warning about potential shipping delays affecting New Zealand’s peak export season, particularly on two crucial trade routes. According to a recent report, ongoing conflict in the Red Sea and drought conditions impacting the Panama Canal are already causing significant disruptions for exporters. These […]
