Brazil’s Beef Exports Surpass 1.2 Million Tonnes Through May, Sustaining Growth in 2025

Brazilian beef exports will continue on a positive trajectory in 2025. In May alone, the country exported 250.8 thousand tonnes, representing a 4.3% increase compared to the same month in 2024.

From January to May, total shipments exceeded 1.2 million tons, representing an 11.4% increase year-over-year. These exports generated over USD 5.8 billion in revenue, according to data from the Foreign Trade Secretariat (Secex/MDIC), compiled by the Brazilian Beef Exporters Association (ABIEC).

Below is a historical overview of bovine meat exports. The chart was prepared using DataLiner data:

Bovine Meat Exports | Jan 2022 – Apr 2025 | TEUs

Source: DataLiner (click here to request a demo)

Export Portfolio Profile
In May, fresh beef accounted for 86.9% of total exports, followed by offal (7.3%) and processed products (3.3%). The Brazilian beef export mix shows signs of diversification, with notable growth in beef fat exports—which more than doubled in volume compared to April—as well as increases in tripe and salted products. Despite this export expansion, approximately 70% of Brazil’s beef production still serves the domestic market, reflecting a balance between domestic supply and foreign trade.

Top Import Markets
China remains the leading destination for Brazilian beef, with 112.8 thousand tonnes shipped in May—representing 45% of the country’s total exports for the month and generating approximately USD 585 million in revenue. Year-to-date, China has imported over 505 thousand tonnes, a 13.4% increase compared to 2024.

The United States ranks second, with 27.4 thousand tonnes shipped in May (USD 168.7 million) and 163 thousand tonnes year-to-date—an impressive 121% surge. Mexico stands out as the third-largest buyer in 2025, with 11.3 thousand tonnes in May and 35.6 thousand tonnes year-to-date, marking a 361% jump from the previous year.

Other key markets include Chile (9.8k tons), Russia (9.4k), Egypt (8.3k), Hong Kong (7.8k), the European Union (7.4k), the Philippines (6.3k), and Saudi Arabia (5k).

Revenue and Outlook for 2025
For the year to date, China leads in revenue with USD 2.48 billion, followed by the U.S. (USD 916.5 million) and Mexico (USD 186.5 million). Hong Kong, the European Union, Chile, Russia, Egypt, the Philippines, and Algeria also feature among the top buyers.

Roberto Perosa, president of ABIEC, highlighted the strong export performance and outlook for the year:

“We are on the right path, with projected growth of 12% in volume and revenue, surpassing 3.2 million tons exported and USD 14.4 billion in sales. The recent declaration by the WOAH recognizing Brazil as free of foot-and-mouth disease without vaccination should open new doors in high-demand markets.”

Source: Portal do Agronegócio

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