'Farmers are dealing with substantial financial burdens' - Diana Armstrong raises concerns over £932 million in agricultural borrowing
Ulster Unionist Deputy Leader and Agriculture Spokesperson Diana Armstrong MLA has raised concerns over the level of borrowing within Northern Ireland’s agricultural sector, following the publication of figures confirming £932 million in outstanding bank advances as a 2025 annual average.
The figures, provided by Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir in response to an Assembly Question, reveal that average borrowing per farm stands at £38,020, with mixed farms carrying the highest average borrowing at £139,055, followed by dairy farms at £71,954.
Ms Armstrong said: "These figures highlight the significant levels of borrowing within our agricultural industry and underline the financial commitments facing farm businesses.
“Farmers are dealing with substantial financial burdens, from the costs of fuel, feed, fertiliser, machinery and labour to the ongoing investment required to meet environmental standards and keep their businesses viable.
"For many, managing cash flow and servicing existing borrowing is an increasingly important challenge.
“It is particularly striking that average borrowing on mixed farms stands at almost £140,000. We need to recognise that different farming sectors face different financial pressures and ensure that our agricultural policy properly reflects those challenges.
"This also highlights the growing pressures facing the next generation of farmers.
"Many young people entering the industry are taking on substantial levels of borrowing at a time when uncertainty hangs over the future direction of agriculture.
"With calls from the Minister to help meet climate targets, young farmers are being asked to make significant long-term financial commitments without the clarity and confidence they need about the viability of their businesses in the years ahead."