The Brazilian beef sector is experiencing a period of great expansion, with impressive results in the first half of 2024. In the national context, Mato Grosso stands out as a leader in the production of sustainable and quality beef, with a share of around 14%. According to a report presented by the Mato Grosso Institute of Agricultural Defense (Indea), the number of animals slaughtered in the state increased by 25,86% in the first half of 2024, compared to the same period in 2023.
“There was a significant increase in the number of animals slaughtered in Mato Grosso due to the slaughter of females, which drove this growth in the first months of the year. It is an expected situation and linked to the livestock cycle. This increase in the supply of cattle in industries impacts values, even leading to the devaluation of the arroba of fat ox, but strong external demand helped to balance prices”, comments the technical analyst at the Mato-Grossense Meat Institute (Imac), Valdecir Francisco Pinto Junior.
In beef production, a report prepared by the Mato Grosso Institute of Agricultural Economics (Imea) with data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), shows that Brazil remains in 2nd place in the world ranking, increasing its production by 3.65% compared to 2023, while the United States decreased its production by 1.17%, in the same period.
MT boosts beef exports
In this promising scenario for Brazil, according to an analysis by the Secretariat of Foreign Trade (SECEX), MS stands out as one of the main exporters of beef during the first half of 2024, with 317.46 thousand tons in carcass equivalent (TEC) destined for the foreign market. The volume corresponds to a significant increase of more than 33% compared to the same period in 2023, when 238.09 thousand tons were shipped to other countries. This amount negotiated by MS from January to June resulted in a value of US$$1 billion 270 million, with US$$4,014.23 being paid per ton exported. In 2023, Mato Grosso exported beef, raising US$$1.06 billion, with a price per ton of US$$4,483.04.
Exports sustain meat chain prices; Mato Grosso expands international markets, facing ups and downs. According to the SECEX report, China continues to be the leader in the acquisition of Mato Grosso meat, with a share of 41.82% in protein imports. The volume acquired by the Asian country reached 145.90 thousand tons this year. The United Arab Emirates stands out as the second largest buyer in 2024, expanding its share in recent years.
Positive outlook and export growth
The outlook for the sector is positive, with expectations of continued growth in exports in the coming years. The quality of Brazilian beef, global demand and diversified markets strengthen the country's food security and agribusiness.
“The trend is that the high number of slaughtered animals will continue, indicating a record year compared to previous years. Exports remain strong, with Mato Grosso contributing around 23% of Brazilian exports, despite lower values and payment per ton. China is expected to remain Mato Grosso’s main market, with reduced dependence and increased purchases from the Middle East and Africa. To give you an idea, Mato Grosso currently has 23 meatpacking plants authorized for this type of slaughter,” concludes Valdecir.
Source: Notícias Agrícolas
