Beef prices have fallen from the record highs seen this time last year but cattle trade at Newport Mart has begun to settle after months of volatility, according to mart manager James Lee.

Speaking to Agriland at yesterday's (Thursday, July 3) sale in Co. Tipperary, Lee said that the exceptional trade experienced in 2025 had softened, although demand for store cattle and weanlings has reportedly held up better than most.

Lee also highlighted how current trade compares to the backdrop of last year's extraordinary prices.

"This year, they have taken a huge hit in comparison to last year, especially beef prices," he added.

Lee claimed that the sharpest correction has been in finished cattle, where prices have come back significantly from last year's peak.

However, he said that prices for younger stock have proved to be more resilient at sale days this year.

Overall the mart manager acknowledged that trade has eased over the past two to three months.

Trade outlook

Looking ahead, Lee believes the market has begun to find its footing after several months of easing prices.

He said: "The way things are looking at the moment, it looks like things have steadied up a good bit."

According to the mart manager, factory prices for heavier cattle appear to have settled across the country lately.

He added: "Beef prices seem to have levelled around €6.40 to €6.50/kg in the factories for heavier cattle."

Lee expects store cattle to remain relatively stable in the coming months, although he believes that seasonal factors are influencing buyer activity at the minute.

"Store cattle will probably remain steady at the minute, although you do notice travelling around the country that there's less cattle on the land at the minute.

"Maybe some of the grass farmers have held off on buying at the moment to see where things are going to settle," he said.

Despite the quieter ringside activity in recent weeks, Lee added that he felt cautiously optimistic that the market has found its level.