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Argentine Beef: Export Volumes Down, Prices Up

Argentine Meat Exports See Volumes Drop, But Prices Rise

Argentina’s meat export landscape is shifting, with new data revealing a significant drop in export volumes, even as the value per ton of meat is on the rise. This complex picture, with falling sales to key markets and a surprising uptick in imports, paints a challenging scene for the South American nation’s beef industry.

Recent figures show a 25% decrease in the volume of meat shipped in the first four months of this year compared to the same period in 2024. In terms of value, however, the drop was a much smaller 2%, cushioned by higher prices for Argentine beef on the international market.

A major factor in this downturn is a sharp reduction in demand from China. The Asian powerhouse, which has been the destination for nearly 60% of Argentina’s meat exports, has cut its purchases by 40% in the early part of 2025. This has had a significant knock-on effect on the overall export numbers.

In an interesting twist, Argentina has been increasing its own beef imports since October 2024. Brazil has emerged as the main supplier for this growing import market.

Information for this article was sourced from data reported by ukragroconsult.com.

Greece Bans Movement of Sheep and Goats to Contain “Goat Plague”

ATHENS, July 29 (Reuters) – Greece has implemented a ban on moving sheep and goats from their farms in an effort to contain a viral infection known as “goat plague” after new cases were detected over the weekend. The agriculture ministry announced the decision on Monday, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

The virus, also known as Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), does not affect humans but is highly contagious among goats and sheep, with a mortality rate of up to 70% for those infected. Georgios Stratakos, a senior agriculture ministry official, reported that approximately 8,000 animals have been culled and more than 200,000 tested, primarily in the central Thessaly region where the outbreak was first detected on July 11.

“Tightening the security measures across the country is deemed necessary for preventive reasons and is aimed at limiting the spread and eradicating the disease,” the ministry stated. PPR was first described in Ivory Coast in 1942 and has since spread globally. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization estimates that the disease results in losses of up to $2.1 billion worldwide each year.

The Greek government is taking all necessary steps to prevent further spread of the disease and protect the livestock industry.

Brazil Halts Poultry Meat Shipments to China, Europe, and Argentina Due to Newcastle Disease

Brazilian authorities have halted all shipments of poultry meat to China, Europe, and Argentina following the detection of a case of Newcastle disease in the municipality of Anta Gorda, located in the State of Rio Grande do Sul[1]. The Ministry of Agriculture stated that the suspension of temporary certification is in line with international standards on trade in poultry and poultry products, ensuring transparency to the importing countries[1].

The suspension applies to the entire national territory for China, Argentina, and the European Union, encompassing poultry meat, fresh poultry meat, and its derivatives, eggs, meat for animal feed, poultry raw material for therapeutic purposes, meat preparations, and untreated blood products[1]. India, South Africa, and Mexico are also affected by the new restrictions[1].

Additionally, all production within 50 kilometres of the outbreak cannot be exported to Canada, South Korea, Israel, Japan, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and East Timor[1]. However, heat-treated products, such as thermo-processed, cooked, and processed products bound for Argentina, South Africa, Chile, the European Union, and Uruguay, are not subject to any restriction[1].

Agriculture Minister Carlos Favaro explained that a chicken tested positive for Newcastle disease, which affects the respiratory, nervous, and digestive systems[1]. The virus may have been introduced after a storm caused the collapse of a roof on a poultry house, exposing the chicken to the virus found in the faeces of infected wild birds[1]. Favaro assured that this appears to be an isolated case, with no signs of sick animals in the area or region[1].

Newcastle disease is highly transmissible among birds but does not affect humans. It was last detected in poultry in Brazil in 2006[1]. Suspension rules are reviewed daily based on ongoing negotiations with partner countries[1]. As a precaution, birds in Rio Grande do Sul will be culled[1]. The state is the third largest exporter of chicken meat in Brazil, with 354,000 tons exported in the first six months of the year[1].

[1]: MercoPress

References

MercoPress

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices w/e July 6th 2024

Quotes

Base quotes for hoggets from the major processors have tightened this week with base quotes of €7.00-€7.20/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Prices have continued to come under pressure this week with reports of weaker demand from some major customers for Irish lamb.

Ireland exports approximately 85 per cent of the lamb produced in the country and the domestic deadweight trade is exposed to developments in supply and demand balances in our export markers. The weakening in deadweight prices is reflective of the more competitive landscape in our export markets with all of our key European export markets recording a reduction in lamb imports for the first four months of 2024 in both volume and value terms.

Spring lamb throughput this year is back by approximately a third from 2023 levels with poor weather conditions, a decline in the ewe flock and later lambing dates contributing to this trend. Current deadweight process are being maintained ahead of previous years due to a tighter availability of suitable sheep for slaughter, a trend that is also reflected in mainland Europe and also in Great Britain.

 

Prices
Last weeks reported price increased to €7.69/kg, a decrease of 35c/kg from the week previous. In the corresponding week in 2023 the reported price was €7.04/kg. The deadweight trade has also come under some downward pressure in the UK regions.

Reported spring lamb prices were the equivalent of €8.08/kg (-75c/kg) in mainland GB last week while the reported price in Northern Ireland was €7.29/kg (-62c/kg). Southern Hemisphere prices remain well below European prices which makes Southern Hemisphere product very competitive on EU markets, even with the extra costs of transport factored in.

Deadweight lamb prices in Australia and New Zealand were the equivalent of €5.08/kg and €3.70/kg respectively last week however have shown signs of increasing over the last month and narrowing the differential with European prices.

 

Throughput
The total sheep kill in DAFM approved plants for week ending July 9th 2024 was 48,386 head, back marginally from the corresponding week in 2023. Throughput for the year to date has totalled 1,289,879  head, 11% behind the corresponding period in 2023. The hogget kill for the year to date has totalled 890,682 head, operating 9% behind 2023 levels.

Meanwhile the ewe/ram kill year to date is back by 21,873 head (-15 %) to 123,544 head. Spring lambs have been increasingly coming forward for processing  with 272,720 processed so far this year. The supplies of spring lambs are expected to increase in the weeks ahead as more mid-season lambing flocks start to present lambs for processing.

Bord Bia

Argentina’s Beef Consumption Hits Record Low Amid Economic Slump

BUENOS AIRES, July 5 (Reuters) – Beef-loving Argentines are cutting back on their steaks as the country’s economy slumps, leading to a likely record low in cattle consumption this year. According to a market report published on Friday by the Rosario exchange, Argentina’s beef consumption in 2024 is expected to total around 44.8 kg (98.77 lb) per person, the lowest since record-keeping began in 1914. The historic average stands at nearly 73 kg.

The South American nation’s economy has been severely impacted by triple-digit inflation, a recession, and rising poverty and unemployment. Libertarian President Javier Milei, who took office in December, has implemented austerity measures to curb government spending and ended the previous government’s freeze on beef prices.

Argentina, renowned for its beef-eating culture with numerous steakhouses, cattle ranches, and asado barbecues, is experiencing a significant shift. As domestic consumption declines, farmers are increasingly exporting their beef. A separate report from the Rosario exchange showed that export volumes from January to May of this year are up 10% compared to the same period last year.

Despite the economic challenges, Argentina’s beef industry continues to adapt, seeking new markets abroad to offset the decline in domestic consumption.

AIMS: Norman Bagley steps down

Press Statement: Norman Bagley to spend more time with golf clubs.

After nearly 25 years of visionary leadership, Norman Bagley, the stalwart founder and driving force behind the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS), is stepping back from his day-to-day role.

Since its inception in 2001, AIMS has grown to become the leading trade body representing the red and white meat sector and food service across the British Isles. This remarkable journey has been steered by Norman’s unparalleled expertise, unwavering dedication, and a passion for excellence that has set the standard in the industry.

Norman Bagley is a name synonymous with the meat industry. His robust views and deep understanding of the sector have earned him widespread respect and admiration. He has been the industry’s most prominent figure, advocating tirelessly for the interests of PLCs and independent meat suppliers.

Under his guidance, AIMS has achieved significant milestones, ensuring that the voices of small and medium enterprises are heard alongside those of large processing businesses and that standards across the industry are upheld.
As Norman transitions to focus more on his love for golf, his legacy within AIMS and the wider meat industry remains indelible. However, his departure from an active role does not mean a complete absence. Norman will continue to be a ready source of contacts, knowledge, guidance, and support for the new leadership. Norman will continue to be as accessible to individual members as he always has been.

With Norman’s shift in focus, AIMS is excited to announce the creation of a new role: Executive Director. This position is a unique opportunity for a dynamic and dedicated individual to build upon the solid foundation laid by Norman. The ideal candidate will bring fresh perspectives while maintaining the high standards and collaborative spirit for which AIMS is known.
AIMS invites applications from qualified individuals who are passionate about the meat industry and eager to drive it forward in this new era.
The Executive Director will have big shoes to fill but will also have the privilege of continuing a proud legacy of leadership and innovation.

For those ready to take on this challenging and rewarding role, AIMS is ready to welcome your application. Join us in continuing the legacy of excellence and innovation that Norman Bagley has so passionately built.
Expressions of interest should be sent to [email protected] by 5pm Wednesday 31st July.

Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS)

Poland Seeks Greater Access to Chinese Market for Meat Products

Poland’s President Andrzej Duda has expressed a strong desire to open the Chinese market further for Polish meat products. Before departing for China on Saturday, Duda highlighted the importance of this initiative, particularly for Polish poultry and beef.

During his five-day official visit, President Duda will meet with China’s President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. He will also address economic forums in Dalian and Shanghai and present decorations at the Polish embassy. The visit aims to strengthen economic ties between the two countries, with several economic agreements expected to be signed.

Duda emphasised that the most crucial aspect of the visit is the ongoing efforts to secure a successful opening of the Chinese market for Polish poultry, followed by beef. He also mentioned that discussions with President Jinping would focus on increasing Chinese investment in Poland and addressing the need for new transport routes. The current import and export of goods from China are being hampered by the war in Ukraine and the migration crisis on the Polish-Belarusian border.

The president’s visit underscores Poland’s commitment to enhancing its trade relationship with China and ensuring long-term growth and stability for its meat industry.

Polish Press Agency

Danish lobby group urges swift solution to China’s threatened pork tariffs

COPENHAGEN, June 17 (Reuters) – Denmark’s pork industry could face significant challenges if China restricts imports of European meat, according to the Danish Agriculture & Food Council. The lobby group urged for a solution to be found before July 4, following China’s announcement of an anti-dumping investigation into imported pork and its by-products from the EU. This move comes in response to the EU’s curbs on Chinese electric vehicle exports.

While Chinese tariffs are not expected immediately, provisional tariffs on EU imports of electric vehicles are set to take effect on July 41. Spain, the EU’s largest pork exporter to China, has stated that it is working with EU officials to prevent the imposition of damaging tariffs1. The Netherlands and Denmark, the EU’s other major pork exporters to China, are also closely monitoring the situation.

The potential restrictions could have far-reaching implications for the European pork supply chain, affecting prices and profitability across the region.

Rival pork exporters could benefit from China-EU trade tensions

SINGAPORE, June 17 (Reuters) – Pork suppliers from South America and the U.S. could gain market share in China if Beijing restricts imports from the European Union in response to escalating trade tensions, according to traders and analysts. Russia, which began exporting pork to China in February and has become an increasingly close trading partner, could also increase its meat shipments.

China’s commerce ministry announced on Monday that it had opened an anti-dumping investigation into imported pork and its by-products from the EU, following the bloc’s imposition of anti-subsidy duties on Chinese-made electric cars. The investigation could last more than a year, and any impact on EU exports will take time to emerge.

Pan Chenjun, a senior analyst at Rabobank in Hong Kong, stated, “Brazil, Argentina and the U.S. can export more pork and offal to China if exports from the European Union are restricted.” This shift could provide new opportunities for these countries to expand their market presence in China.

The potential restrictions on EU pork imports come at a time when China’s demand for pork remains high, and alternative suppliers are well-positioned to fill any gaps that may arise.

Spain Calls for Negotiations to Avoid Tariffs on Pork Exports to China

MADRID, June 17 (Reuters) – Spain has called for negotiations to prevent tariffs on its pork exports to China, following Beijing’s announcement of an anti-dumping probe into pork imports from the European Union. The investigation appears to mainly target Spain, the Netherlands, France, and Denmark, in response to the EU’s curbs on Chinese electric vehicle exports.

Spanish Agriculture Minister Luis Planas expressed hope for a resolution, stating, “I hope and expect that there will be room for understanding, for negotiation, and to avoid the imposition of tariffs on agricultural and food products.” The probe, announced by China’s commerce ministry, will focus on pork intended for human consumption, including fresh, cold, and frozen whole cuts, as well as pig intestines, bladders, and stomachs

Spain, a leading EU pork exporter, is working with EU officials to avoid damaging tariffs that could impact the industry significantly. The investigation could last more than a year, and immediate measures are not expected.

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