Top 10 cattle importers worldwide

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Written by Robert Gultig

23 April 2025

Top 10 Cattle Importers Worldwide

1. United States

The United States is the world’s largest importer of cattle, with a significant demand for beef and dairy products. The country imports cattle primarily from Canada, Mexico, and Australia. In 2020, the United States imported over $3.6 billion worth of live cattle.

2. China

China is another major importer of cattle, driven by the growing demand for beef and dairy products in the country. China imports cattle primarily from Australia, Brazil, and Uruguay. In 2020, China imported over $2.5 billion worth of live cattle.

3. Japan

Japan is a significant importer of cattle, particularly high-quality beef breeds such as Wagyu. The country imports cattle primarily from Australia, the United States, and Canada. In 2020, Japan imported over $1.8 billion worth of live cattle.

4. South Korea

South Korea is a major importer of cattle, driven by the demand for beef and dairy products. The country imports cattle primarily from Australia, the United States, and New Zealand. In 2020, South Korea imported over $1.3 billion worth of live cattle.

5. Mexico

Mexico is one of the largest importers of cattle in the world, with a significant demand for beef and dairy products. The country imports cattle primarily from the United States, Canada, and Australia. In 2020, Mexico imported over $1.1 billion worth of live cattle.

6. Russia

Russia is a growing importer of cattle, driven by the increasing demand for beef and dairy products in the country. Russia imports cattle primarily from Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Brazil. In 2020, Russia imported over $900 million worth of live cattle.

7. Egypt

Egypt is a significant importer of cattle, with a growing demand for beef and dairy products. The country imports cattle primarily from Sudan, Romania, and Spain. In 2020, Egypt imported over $800 million worth of live cattle.

8. Vietnam

Vietnam is a major importer of cattle, driven by the demand for beef and dairy products. The country imports cattle primarily from Australia, the United States, and India. In 2020, Vietnam imported over $700 million worth of live cattle.

9. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is a significant importer of cattle, with a growing demand for beef and dairy products. The country imports cattle primarily from Australia, India, and Sudan. In 2020, Saudi Arabia imported over $600 million worth of live cattle.

10. Malaysia

Malaysia is a notable importer of cattle, driven by the demand for beef and dairy products. The country imports cattle primarily from Australia, New Zealand, and India. In 2020, Malaysia imported over $500 million worth of live cattle.
Overall, these top 10 cattle importers play a crucial role in meeting the global demand for beef and dairy products. The import volumes and financial figures reflect the significant reliance on international trade to fulfill domestic consumption needs. As the world’s population continues to grow, the demand for cattle products is expected to increase, further driving the import market for these top countries.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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