FALLING prices have put the beef industry under severe pressure, according to the latest market analysis from Hybu Cig Cymru- Meat Promotion Wales (HCC).

The ceasing of trade to hotels, restaurants, pubs, educational establishments and workplace cafeterias has hit market prices for both lamb and beef.

While west Wales producers have been given a boost by the reopenign of livestock markets in Newcastle Emlyn, Whiltand and Crymych, pProcessors are facing challenges around switching to selling to other markets, and maintaining demand for their preferred cuts.

The all prime cattle average market price in England and Wales has been fluctuating since the start of the year, with the most recent liveweight price for the week ending April 18 standing at 186.4p/kg.

For the week ending April 18, the average deadweight prices in England and Wales for steers stood at 319p/kg – down 6p on the week, and 20.3p below the corresponding week in 2019.

Steers saw a steep decrease in deadweight prices despite throughput numbers being 5.1 per cent less than the previous week.

This latest decrease means that steer prices have fallen over 13.5p over a fortnight.

A similar pattern can be seen for the other prime cattle types of heifers and young bulls.

Deadweight cull cow prices are also causing concern, with the England and Wales average price for the week ending April 18 being 208p/kg.

While this is similar to the previous week it still remains 23.2p below year-earlier levels.