Significantly more cows slaughtered in September

In August, slaughter numbers returned to the 5-year average, but this did not continue in September. In weeks 36 to 40, slaughter numbers even remain below this average. It is striking that much more is being slaughtered compared to last year, with an increase of 1.500 to 2.500 animals every week compared to the same weeks in 2019.

Lots of slaughter, stable prices
The first week of September recorded a dip of just under 11.000 slaughters. This changed from week 37 and the figures remained around 12.000, with a peak in week 40 where more than 12.500 cows were slaughtered. In 2019, the figures were below 11.000 units.

It is not clear what the reason for this increase is. There could be a link with the feeding measure, but this was put aside in mid-August. In that sense, it would be special if more cows were sent to slaughter at the end of September. Since corona seemed relatively well under control during the period, it is unlikely that slaughterhouses were previously affected by corona outbreaks. However, it cannot be ruled out, as the corona numbers increased again at the end of September.

In any case, rising slaughter figures are not encouraged by higher prices. The prices for cows in September, with an average of around €2,70 per kilo, are even lower than the €2,72 per kilo from 2019. The prices of bulls also hardly vary compared to 2019 prices. The weather could possibly have an influence, as it was still above 30 degrees in mid-September. The view of the stable season could also have an influence with a view to health, space and/or the ration, but that would be exceptional as this did not occur in previous years.

Import and export calves
In addition to the slaughter cows, considerably more calves have also been imported and exported. This is also striking, since this year's prices are on average a lot lower than those of last year. The export numbers vary enormously. This year the smallest number of calves was exported in week 38: just under 400. The lowest number last year was 80 in week 40 with the highest outlier of 480 in week 37. This year the highest outlier was 707 in week 39. See below table for the differences.

The import numbers are also considerably higher. On average, about 1.000 more calves entered the country than last year. While the prices are actually lower. This year, red fur yielded an average of a maximum of €4,45 per kilo and black fur an average of €3,95 per kilo. Last year, red and white yielded an average of €5,03 per kilo and black and white averaged €4,53 per kilo. Furthermore, hardly any special events occurred in August that initiated an import increase.