Explore the latest trends in the global beef industry with our comprehensive report. Covering key markets such as Mexico, Australia, the UK, and Brazil, we delve into cattle export growth, record production levels, and shifting market dynamics. Discover how trade missions, price fluctuations, and consumer demand are shaping the beef market worldwide in 2023.

Mexican Cattle Exports to the U.S. Surge by 10%, Reaching Over 900,000 in 2022-2023 Cycle

Mexico experienced a 10% increase in cattle exports to the United States in the 2022-2023 cycle, selling a total of 901,754 heads of live cattle. This number surpasses the previous year’s export by over 80,000 heads. The exports included 710,427 calves and 191,327 heifers.

The cattle originated from nine Mexican states (Campeche, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Nuevo León, Sonora, Tamaulipas, Veracruz, and Yucatán), which have met the U.S. health requirements for bovine tuberculosis. This achievement is credited to the National Campaign Against Bovine Tuberculosis run by Senasica, resulting in a prevalence of the disease below 0.5% in 86.23% of Mexico’s territory.

Chihuahua led in exports with 332,417 head of cattle, followed by Sonora and Durango. The exports primarily occurred through four customs offices: San Jerónimo, Agua Prieta, Nogales, and Ojinaga.

Binational efforts since 1993 to eradicate bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis, with regular reviews of Mexican states’ tuberculosis eradication programs by the United States-Mexico Binational Committee. Different regions in Mexico have been recognized by the USDA APHIS for their low prevalence of bovine tuberculosis, with varying requirements for tuberculin testing based on their status.

Australian Red Meat Exports Soar to Four-Year High, with Beef and Lamb Sales Leading the Surge

Australian red meat exports reached a four-year high in October 2023, marking a significant increase from the previous year. Beef exports surged 44% year-on-year to 105,131 tonnes, the highest since 2019, with North America becoming the largest market for Australian beef after a 118% increase in exports.

China was the second-largest market, with a 37% year-on-year increase in beef exports. Lamb exports increased by 17% year-on-year, with North America being the largest market, despite a drop in exports to the USA. Mutton exports also saw a significant rise, with China and the Middle East and North Africa region showing substantial growth. This export growth indicates Australia’s strong position in the global red meat market and suggests potential for record high lamb exports by the end of 2023.

UK Boosts Beef, Lamb, and Pork Exports in West Africa with Successful Trade Mission to Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has been promoting UK beef, lamb, and pork in West Africa, particularly in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, through a trade mission involving ten exporters from nine UK businesses. These exporters met with numerous buyers in both countries and participated in receptions hosted by the High Commissioners.

The mission, aimed at expanding the market for high-quality, sustainably produced UK red meat, has been successful. In 2022, UK red meat exports to Ghana were valued at £7.9 million, with the UK being the top supplier of sheep meat there. Exports to Côte d’Ivoire were worth £2.3 million, with pork being the main product. Dr. Awal Fuseini of AHDB highlighted the growth potential in West Africa, especially as the region develops and its population expands.

Brazil Sees Notable Decline in Fed Cattle Prices Amid Record Beef Production in 2023

Brazil’s fed cattle market has seen a decline in prices throughout 2023 compared to 2022, with the most significant drop of 26% occurring in September. This decrease is attributed to an increased supply of animals for slaughter and a rise in beef production, which reached a record 6.39 million tons from January to September 2023, an 8.37% increase over the same period in 2022.

The number of slaughtered animals also grew by 10.24% in 2023, totaling 24.42 million. Although the average yield is slightly lower than the previous year’s record, the high supply of slaughter-ready animals has recently diminished due to fewer animals being confined towards the end of the year. However, beef consumption is expected to rise during the holiday season, and strong export demand may potentially drive up prices.