Overview
- Imports from Brazil have expanded to about 15,000 tonnes per month, roughly 7% of Argentina’s domestic beef demand, and are now visible in supermarkets and butchers.
- Some Brazilian cuts are selling up to about 25% below equivalent Argentine products, with examples cited where imported loin is roughly ARS 23,400 per kilo versus over ARS 30,000 for domestic supply.
- Domestic supply fell from historical levels and recent higher slaughter rates in May have begun to increase availability after months of herd retention.
- The Instituto de Promoción de la Carne Vacuna Argentina reported that beef prices stabilized in May with a 0.1% month-on-month change while poultry and pork continued to gain price competitiveness versus beef.
- Export volumes have declined but the average export price reached a record near $6,900 per tonne in April, keeping export revenues strong even as more Brazilian product competes at home and consumer choices shift.