Europe is experiencing a severe shortage of mature cattle, resulting in high prices and a decline in beef consumption due to inflation. The continent's beef production has been contracting for the past three years, with Italy specifically facing challenges due to increased feed costs. This has led to a higher number of animals being sent to slaughter. Prices are rising and remain high, with breeding prices for young bullocks and cows showing significant increases. There has been a decrease in imports of live cattle from breeding, while imports of meat have increased. Domestic beef purchases have seen a 4% increase in expenditure but a 4.5% decrease in volumes. Farmers are expected to make strategic decisions due to the rising production costs required for environmental sustainability.