A shipment of approximately 2,000 suckler bred bulls set sail from Belview Port in Co. Waterford this week destined for Algeria.

The shipment of cattle also included approximately 75 pedigree Holstein in-calf heifers and was assembled by midlands based livestock company Cows.ie, owned by David Clarke.

Speaking to Agriland Clarke said the bulls were approximately 400kg in weight and were all suckler-bred.

The bulls are predominantly 'U' grade cattle with some 'E' and 'R' grades included also and were all sourced at marts and from suckler farmers across Ireland.

The cattle will be travelling on board the livestock carrier vessel MV Alondra and Clarke said he is hopeful of securing orders for similar-type cattle as well as suckler-bred weanlings in future.

He added: "A big thank you to the farm teams, transport drivers, vets, handlers, and the staff at Belview Port for another safe, efficient, and high-welfare load.

"Irish genetics and animal husbandry continue to be in strong demand internationally.

"Exporting quality cattle supports farms, rural jobs, and the wider agri-food supply chain here in Ireland."

2026 Irish cattle exports

Latest available figures from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) indicate that over 235,000 cattle have been exported from Ireland to date this year.

Total 2026 Irish cattle export numbers (including calves) is down 37,800 head or 14% as of mid June of this year.

Over 187,000 calves have been exported this year, down 10% or almost 20,000 head on this time last year.

Just over 17,000 weanlings have been exported this year, down 29% or 7,000 head on last year.