Live cattle exports rise as Rio de Janeiro bets on Port of Açu

Brazil’s live cattle exports continue to grow strongly and may reach a historic record in 2025. In September alone, more than 137,000 head were shipped abroad, generating around R$796 million in revenue, with an average price of R$411 per arroba.

From January to September, 788,000 cattle were exported — 16% more than in the same period of 2024. If the pace continues, the sector could reach 1.5 million animals exported by December.

The main markets remain in the Middle East and North Africa, with Turkey, Iraq, Morocco, and Egypt accounting for nearly 80% of shipments. Including Saudi Arabia, the share approaches 100%, as exports meet halal slaughter standards required in those destinations.

Among exporting states, Pará leads with 60% of shipments, followed by Rio Grande do Sul (22%) and São Paulo (5%). The strategic advantage lies in logistics and proximity to export ports. In this context, Rio de Janeiro is betting on the Port of Açu, launching a pilot project to export live cattle. The initiative depends on regional livestock availability and compliance with animal welfare and sanitary protocols.

For producers, international shipments offer an additional opportunity, as exported cattle fetch higher prices than those sold domestically — R$411 per arroba versus R$307 in September. Even so, live cattle exports represent only about 3% of total slaughter in Brazil. Even if a record is achieved, the share will remain below 4% in 2025, with processed beef continuing to dominate as Brazil’s main export segment.

The Port of Açu is emerging as a key player in expanding exports from Brazil’s Southeast, creating new opportunities for local producers and strengthening Rio de Janeiro’s presence in the international livestock trade.

Source: Ururau

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