Portugal is the primary importer of Spanish beef, accounting for 33% of the worldwide total and 39% of the EU total in 2020. Spain is the largest exporter of beef to Portugal, making up 66% of the market in volume. The beef industry in Spain is modernizing and professionalizing, with a focus on traceability, food safety, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. The sector is also expanding to non-EU markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Portugal's strong livestock tradition and need to meet domestic demand, despite a production deficit, make it a key partner for Spanish beef exports.