Argentina Cuts Beef Exports in 2025, Bucking Trend Seen in Brazil, Australia, Uruguay, and Paraguay

According to a report from the Rosario Board of Trade (BCR), Argentina’s beef exports totaled 96,805 metric tons in the first two months of 2025, down 26.1% from the same period in 2024.

In terms of revenue, exports fell 3.8% year-over-year to $474.5 million for January and February combined.

However, BCR notes that the key point is not the scale of the decline but rather the contrast it presents compared to the performance of other major global beef exporters.

Indeed, during the same period, Brazil—the world’s largest beef exporter—shipped 370,900 tons abroad, a 3% increase over January–February 2024. Revenue from Brazilian beef exports rose 10.2% year over year.

Likewise, Australia, the second-largest global exporter, recorded 198,500 tons exported in the first two months of 2025, a 17.2% increase from last year.

Uruguay and Paraguay also posted higher beef export volumes in early 2025 compared to 2024, according to BCR.

Uruguay exported 65,800 tons, up 4.5% year-on-year, with export revenue increasing 20.6%. Paraguay shipped 62,600 tons — a 21.6% rise from 51,500 tons a year earlier — marking a record export level for the country.

“In short, these numbers reflect the strength of international demand,” BCR analysts stated, noting that the global market is currently facing a reduced supply of beef, especially from Brazil, the United States, and even China, which have cut production by over 600,000 tons.

The analysts said the United States, historically a major supplier of beef, is expected to remain a net importer for the third consecutive year, putting upward pressure on global prices.

Using the FAO’s Beef Price Index as a benchmark, BCR noted the index reached 131.9 points in February 2025, marking a 10.7% increase from 119.1 points in February 2024 and just 3 points (2%) below the February 2022 peak.

Analysts say the international market remains highly attractive for beef exports.

BCR added that the U.S. Europe not only drives higher prices but is currently offering favorable prices, with Hilton Quota benchmarks nearing $17,000 per ton.

Israel is also highlighted as a destination with strong demand, both in volume and price.

Even China, which pressured prices downward for much of last year, has begun to ease that stance. Prices paid for imported beef are showing slow but steady improvement.

According to data from the Chinese government, the country imported 470,000 tons of beef in the first two months of 2025 at an average price of nearly $5,200 per ton — a 9% increase from the average price in 2024.

In this context, BCR said export prospects remain positive despite fluctuations in shipped volumes.

“With sustained global demand and rising international prices, Argentina’s challenge will be to improve competitiveness and capitalize on a market that continues to show positive signals,” analysts concluded.

They added that the evolution of key destination markets and the sector’s ability to respond will be crucial in capturing opportunities in the coming months.

Source: Portal DBO

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