Spain: Beef production value grew by 15% in 2024

The Spanish beef sector closed out 2024 with a 15% growth, reaching a total value of €4.641 billion, according to data presented at the meeting between the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food and key industry representatives. The increase in production value was driven by both a 0.6% increase in production volume compared to 2023 and higher prices. Currently, the beef sector accounts for 17% of livestock production in Spain. One of the highlights of the meeting was the 7% growth in exports, which totaled €1.65 billion in 2024. Despite a 2% decrease in the national cattle population, this export growth has allowed the sector to maintain its profitability. The reduction in cattle numbers has also been observed among large producers in the European Union, with a 2.3% drop in the EU cattle census. This trend particularly affects suckler cows and calves, which has generated a market with high prices due to the reduced supply of cattle. Beef prices have continued the upward ...