In this week’s Beef Market Update, Shaun Haney is joined by Anne Wasko of Gateway Livestock Exchange to discuss the week’s explosive cattle markets and what’s on the horizon for Canadian producers.
Southern U.S. markets were on fire, with Texas and Kansas live cattle prices jumping $5–$8 higher. Dressed trade in Nebraska saw gains of $5–$10, continuing a strong run despite general market caution. Wasko says these moves align with the typical seasonal highs expected in June, mirroring trends seen last year.
Closer to home, Ontario’s cattle market also made headlines. Ontario’s rail-grade price surged $15–$20 this week, catching up to Alberta’s steady strength. Wasko noted that Alberta packers seem to have “slammed the gate closed” and are holding out for higher bids, mirroring aggressive pricing across North America.
StatsCan’s April data shows a sharp decline in live cattle exports to the U.S. after a busy first quarter. Only 17,000 head of fat cattle crossed the border in April, down from an average of 52,000 in the first three months of the year. Feeder cattle exports dropped similarly, from 20,000 to just 5,000 head.
Meanwhile, retail beef prices fell six per cent from March but remain 11 per cent higher than last April. Pork prices jumped 18 per cent, while chicken edged up slightly. Wasko says this lag between producer and retail prices is not unusual but shows a market that’s still recalibrating after COVID-19.
Amid these market shifts, the ongoing wildfire situation in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and generally dry conditions across much of the Prairies are adding another layer of concern for producers. Wasko says cow-calf operators are keeping a close watch on forage production and grass conditions, as decisions on heifer retention or culling remain up in the air.
