Record-breaking cattle prices a lifeline for farmers facing inflation, trade tensions

By Chelsea Kemp – CBC

Cattle prices have soared to what producers are calling record highs in 2025, offering long-awaited financial relief to Manitoba ranchers after years of stagnant returns and rising operational costs.

Barry Lowes, a producer from McAuley in southwestern Manitoba, watched the Livestock Markets Association of Canada auction in Virden Friday, marking down prices in amazement as bids soared to unprecedented levels.

“They’re all amazed at the prices,” Lowes said. “It’s just quite a spectacle.”