The output price indices show milk and sheep prices were down 27.5 per cent and 1.7 per cent, respectively in 2023 when compared with 2022 while pigs and potatoes both rose by 19.1 per cent, eggs were up 15.1 per cent, and cattle by 3.4 per cent.
Annual input price indices decreases were recorded in fertiliser (-31 per cent) and energy (-3.5 per cent) in 2023 when compared with 2022, while the most notable annual increases were in plant protection products (+8.8 per cent), seeds (+7 per cent), and veterinary expenses (+6.1 per cent). The annual terms of trade fell 2.9 per cent when compared with 2022.
Over the 12 months to December 2023, there were significant reductions in the Input prices recorded for fertiliser (-47.6 per cent), feed (-13.9 per cent), and energy (-5.8 per cent). The most significant output price decreases in the 12 months to December 2023 were in milk (-39 per cent), cereals (-31.6 per cent), and poultry (-7.6 per cent), while increases were recorded in potatoes (+78.6 per cent) and vegetables (+23 per cent).
On a monthly basis, the Agricultural Output Price Index for December rose by 3.3 per cent when compared with November 2023. The Agricultural Input Price Index for December 2023 was down marginally by 0.7 per cent from November 2023.