The latest statistics from the Scottish government indicate that the country's cattle herd shows the first signs of stabilization after a prolonged period of contraction. Analysts highlight that the improvement responds to a combination of better profitability and support programs for the sector.
The Scottish cattle herd went through years of sustained reduction, partly due to post-Brexit uncertainty and the departure of producers who could not sustain profitability. Stabilization is an expected but not guaranteed signal, according to sector analysts.
The economic weight of cattle in Scotland is significant, especially in rural areas.
According to the published data, the number of cattle heads in Scotland remained stable compared to the previous year, with a slight recomposition in the cow breeding categories. Breeding herd retention programs and improvements in meat prices contributed to the change of trend.
The report also highlights a greater incorporation of technology in farms.
The stabilization of the Scottish herd paves the way for a gradual recovery of the sector, although it remains to consolidate the trend. For local producers, the data represents support for the continuity of their farms.
Commercially, stabilization also ensures a greater flow of raw material for the Scottish meat industry.