Northern Ireland's farming industry recorded profits of more than £1bn in 2025, up 36% in real terms on the previous year and the first time the figure has passed that mark. The surge was driven largely by record beef prices, which have risen as farmers exit the sector after years of thin margins and tighter regulation, tightening supply against steady demand. Dairy and egg production also performed strongly, both having seen substantial consolidation and investment over the past decade.

Total farm output rose 12% to £3.6bn while input costs increased only marginally to £2.2bn, and beef output value alone climbed 37% to just under £900m despite slightly lower production volumes. The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs forecasts average profit per farm will rise 19% in 2025/26, from £56,390 to £66,840, with subsidies accounting for under 30% of total profit — low by historical standards. Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir welcomed the results but warned they are unlikely to be repeated, noting that market prices have fallen sharply in 2026 while input costs have risen.