SUPPLIES of beef and veal are forecast to tighten during the rest of this year and into 2015 – raising the possibility of firmer prices.

UK beef production is currently two per cent ahead of 2013 levels with much increased carcase weights compounding slightly higher slaughter numbers.

However, British Cattle Movement Service (BCMS) data in April recorded fewer young cattle on the ground, leading to an expected drop in prime cattle availability towards the end of the year.

The UK adult cattle kill in the first half of 2014 was also back on the 2013 figures.

Debbie Butcher, AHDB/Eblex senior analyst, said 2015 production is forecast to come back two per cent as lower cattle supplies prevail.

Firm demand for manufacturing beef could support export prospects into 2015 but, she said, the strength of Sterling could influence this.

Current indications on imports from Ireland are for supplies to remain strong over the summer, but to tighten later in the year.

She said: “Unless consumer demand picks up markedly, any significant upwards pressure on price over the summer months looks unlikely.

“However, the forecasts for availability later this year and into 2015 offer a more positive picture. With lower production, increased exports and lower imports, UK market supplies next year are forecast to reduce, so the possibility of firmer prices is improved.”