Brazil’s live cattle exports near record high, reinforcing global leadership

Exports of live cattle reached 137.17 thousand head in September 2025, marking the second-largest monthly volume in Brazil’s history, according to Agrifatto data. The result was close to the all-time record set in December 2024, when 137.75 thousand head were shipped.

In revenue, live cattle shipments totaled US$147.93 million, averaging US$76.32 per arroba, consolidating the segment’s strong performance in foreign trade. From January to September 2025, Brazil exported 788.41 thousand live cattle — a 16.08% increase from the same period last year and the highest volume ever recorded for the first nine months of a year.

Among exporting states, Pará remains the leading origin, accounting for 59.59% of shipments, followed by Rio Grande do Sul with 22.38%. This geographic concentration reflects the established port infrastructure and logistics in these states, as well as their proximity to major import markets in the Middle East and North Africa.

Turkey, Iraq, and Morocco drive demand
The main destinations remain concentrated in Turkey, Iraq, Morocco, and Egypt, which together absorbed 77.17% of September’s export volume. Demand from these markets is linked to cultural and religious factors, such as the requirement for Halal slaughter, and to food-security policies that prioritize local slaughtering to generate jobs.

According to Agrifatto, if the current growth trend continues through December, 2025 will become Brazil’s record year for live cattle exports, reinforcing the country’s position as one of the few consistent exporters in this niche market. The performance reflects growing global interest in Brazilian cattle genetics, known for hardiness, weight gain, and adaptability to different climates.

Limited impact on domestic prices
Despite the sharp rise in exports, Agrifatto notes that the impact on domestic prices for finished cattle and replacement animals is minimal. In 2024, live cattle exports accounted for just 3.15% of total slaughter in the country. Even if Brazil exports 1.5 million head in 2025, that would amount to only 3.59% of the estimated 41.71 million cattle slaughtered — showing that live animal exports are not large enough to significantly affect domestic markets.

Outlook for live cattle exports
The scenario indicates that Brazil continues to strengthen its role as a global supplier of live cattle, especially to countries that value the origin, health, and genetic quality of Brazilian livestock. The record performance in 2025 could open new trade routes and expand the sector, keeping the country at the center of the global live cattle trade.

Fonte: Compre Rural

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