The lamb trade in NI has bounced back from a midsummer dip, with factories adding 10p/kg to base quotes as soon as processing recommenced after the July holidays.

By midweek, base quotes were starting at 670-680p/kg, although higher prices were available for regular suppliers.

However, there is a very lively trade for lambs in local marts which is being mainly driven by exporters buying for direct slaughter in Britain.

On Wednesday, the majority of lambs presented for sale at Ballymena Mart were bought for export.

With up to £160/head being paid at local marts, the live trade is putting significant pressure on NI-based factories to pay more.

700p/kg mark

The expectation is that base quotes will move on in the coming days and more deals will be able to break the 700p/kg mark.

If exports to Britain continue to drive the trade into August, it will help ride out any potential lull in price which can happen as more lambs become ready for slaughter.

After that, store lamb and breeding stock sales can also play a role helping to balance out the trade into the autumn.