CATTLE supply at Pugu market declined slightly by 3.4 per cent in December last year, the situation that could have contributed to the increased prices for almost all the breeds.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade monthly report shows that the average sales per day dipped to 731 cattle in December compared to 757 recorded in the previous month. According to the report, the prices for the mature cattle grade (G2) increased to 540,000/- in month under review, from 514,000/- recorded in November last year, which is 5.1 per cent change.

Likewise, the prices for the grade (G3) female cattle jumped to 481,000/-, in December from 475,000/- in November, equivalent to 1.3 per cent change. The prices for the mature cattle grade (G2) increased to 825,000/- in December, representing 6.5 per cent change from 775,000/- of the previous month.

The value of the male cattle grade (G2) recorded a 3.1 per cent change rising to 525,000/- in the period under review compared to 509,000/- in November. Meanwhile, the average sales per market day for goats increased 285 in December, equivalent to 26.7 per cent change compared to 225 supplied in the month before.

However, the average sales per market day for sheep dropped to 100 in December from 139 in November, which is 28.1 per cent fall. For example, the prices for the mature goat grade (G2) increased to 110,000/- in December, a 23.6 per cent change in December from 89,000/- recorded in previous month.

The prices for the mature sheep dropped to 72,500/- from 75,000/-, which is 3.3 per cent change. The 'Daily News' survey during the month of December particularly during the festive season shows that average prices for cattle meat ranged between 6,500/- and 7,000/- per kilogram.