Cow farms for sale in Spain

What is the role of the cattle sector in Spain?

In Spain, the beef sector is the second most important in economic terms within livestock farming, after the pork sector. Meat production accounts for 14% of livestock production and 6% of agricultural production, while dairy production represents 17% of livestock production and 5% of agricultural production.

In total, there are approximately 6.8 million heads in the country, which are destined for meat and dairy production. Of the cows destined for meat production, 77% are located in Castilla y León, Galicia, Extremadura, Catalonia, Andalusia, and Castilla-La Mancha. Meanwhile, 84% of dairy cows are found in Galicia, Castilla y León, Catalonia, Asturias, Andalusia, and Cantabria.

Spain is one of the main producers and exporters of beef in the European Union, and ranks fifth in milk production, behind France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy. These products are certified by various Protected Designations of Origin (D.O.P) and Protected Geographical Indications (I.G.P), guaranteeing their quality in international markets, especially in countries such as Portugal, Italy, and France.

What should be considered when looking for cattle farms for sale?

When looking for cattle farms for sale, there are a number of factors to consider, such as accessibility, location, size, and the condition of the farm.

First, it is important that the farm is accessible to basic services and located in a geographical area with an optimal climate for raising cattle.

Another aspect to consider when evaluating cattle farms for sale is size. It is necessary to assess whether the number of cattle that can be housed on the farm aligns with the desired production system.

Finally, attention should be paid to the condition of the farm. If the current conditions are unfavorable, renovations may be necessary.

Where in Spain are dairy farms for sale?

Although it is possible to find dairy farms for sale in various areas of Spain, there are several autonomous communities that concentrate the largest number of farms due to their favorable climatic conditions. These regions are Galicia, Castilla y León, Catalonia, Asturias, Andalusia, and Cantabria.

What are the main breeds raised in cattle farms for sale?

In cattle farms for sale, both Spanish native breeds and non-native breeds are raised, destined for meat and milk production.

Among the Spanish native breeds used for beef production, the Morucha or Salamanca breed stands out, found in the western part of the country. Also, there is the Retinta breed, raised in Andalusia, the Balearic Islands, Castilla-La Mancha, Castilla y León, and Extremadura. Additionally, the Avileña-Negra Ibérica breed stands out, commonly found in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula.

As for non-native breeds, Fleckviech stands out, originating from Germany and found throughout the country.

In the case of dairy cows, the Frisian breed, originating from the Netherlands and Germany, and the Brown Swiss cow, native to Switzerland and found in areas of northern, central, and eastern Spain, are some of the most notable.

What areas of Spain stand out in the cattle sector?

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, in 2023, there were 130,489 farms dedicated to beef production in Spain. The main regions in terms of production that year were Catalonia, Castilla y León, Galicia, and the Valencian Community. Only these four autonomous communities accounted for 68% of beef production in 2023.