Sheep-tacular news: Ten-year high in price of wool shear genius for Northern Ireland farmers, says MP
A 10-year peak in the price of wool is great news for Ulster farmers, MP Carla Lockhart says – and that’s not bleating around the bush.
Returns have increased by around 70% over 12 months, she stated, bringing good times for Northern Ireland’s families in the sector.
Not wanting to pull the wool over anyone’s eyes, she said the product has been “globally under-valued for years”, but is now showing stronger market demand while being more competitive at auctions.
Stated the Upper Bann MP: “The significant increase in wool prices is a positive boost for the local sheep sector.
She said: “In the 1950s wool was regarded as a highly valued national resource, but its value declined over the years due to the growth in synthetic fibres.
“Increased prices for the 2025 wool clip are good news for around 3,000 local sheep farmers, who have faced rising costs and difficult trading conditions in recent years. Seeing returns increase by 70% in 12 months is a significant development.
“Sheep farmers produce a high-quality product and deserve to see a fair return for their hard work. I commend the Ulster Wool Group based in Antrim, and its partnership with British Wool, which is delivering results by creating competition at auction and expanding market opportunities for its members.”
Average returns have risen from 40p per kilo to 68p, she said, with further increases bringing price to around 95p per kilo predicted – and some wool types may even break the £1 mark.
“This is a very positive step forward,” said the DUP agriculture spokeswoman. “It is fantastic to see sheep farmers getting an opportunity to improve the viability of their businesses through the sale of wool.
“[The price rises] represent a major turnaround for the sector and underlines the importance of continued investment in wool marketing, traceability and supply chain development.
“The UK sheep sector sustains thousands of jobs, and contributes significantly to the economy through the sale of ewes, rams and lambs for breeding and meat. Sheep also play a vital role in biodiversity and countryside management in both upland and lowland areas.”
The MP added: “The benefits of wool are endless. It is durable, fire retardant, fully traceable, hard wearing, recyclable and bio-degradable.”