Argentina’s beef exports fell by 26.1% in early 2025, totaling 96,805 metric tons, while revenues declined by 3.8% to US$474.5 million. This contrasts sharply with increases in exports from other countries such as Brazil and Australia. Global beef demand remains strong, with upward price pressures expected, despite Argentina’s challenges in maintaining competitiveness.

Despite a robust global demand for beef, Argentina’s export performance is faltering compared to other leading exporters. In the first two months of 2025, Argentina exported 96,805 metric tons of beef, reflecting a 26.1% decline from the same timeframe in 2024. Concurrently, revenue from these exports decreased by 3.8% year-on-year, totaling US$474.5 million for January and February.

In contrast, Brazil, the foremost exporter of beef, increased its shipments by 3% to 370,900 tons, alongside a revenue boost of 10.2%. Similarly, Australia, the second-largest exporter, witnessed a 17.2% increase in sales, amounting to 198,500 tons. Uruguay and Paraguay also reported favorable statistics, with Uruguay exporting 65,800 tons—an uptick of 4.5%—and Paraguay achieving a record figure of 62,600 tons, rising 21.6% from the previous year.

The Rosario Board of Trade (BCR) analysts highlighted the significance of these numbers, indicating strong international demand amid a constrained global beef supply, particularly from Brazil, the United States, and China. These countries face production cuts exceeding 600,000 tons, which influences global pricing dynamics. Furthermore, the U.S. is projected to continue as a net importer for the third consecutive year, exacerbating upward pressure on beef prices.

The BCR reported that the FAO’s Beef Price Index rose to 131.9 points in February 2025, which is a 10.7% year-on-year increase and only 2% shy of the peak observed in February 2022. The U.S. and Europe are driving higher prices, with the Hilton Quota benchmarks approaching nearly US$17,000 per ton. Israel has emerged as a market with strong demand for both volume and pricing.

Interestingly, even China, which previously exerted downward pressure on prices, has shown signs of improvement. Data indicates that China imported 470,000 tons of beef in early 2025 at approximately US$5,200 per ton, a 9% increase from the prior year. In summary, BCR maintains that Argentina’s export outlook remains favorable, despite current fluctuations. To leverage the ongoing global demand and rising prices, Argentina must enhance its competitiveness in the market.

In conclusion, while Argentina’s beef export figures have recently declined, the global market showcases significant demand and rising prices, particularly from key players such as Brazil, Australia, and China. Argentina’s future prospects hinge on its ability to increase competitiveness and effectively capitalize on the positive signals within the international market.

Original Source: en.mercopress.com

Related posts:

Chinese Firms Seek Global Expansion Amid Domestic Economic Slowdown The U.S. Seafood Import Landscape: Focus on India Trump’s Tariffs on Colombian Goods and Their Impact on U.S. Consumers Argentina’s Oilseed Sector 2024/25: A Mixed Outlook Amidst Challenges and Opportunities