Live Beef

US: Cattle and Beef Marketing Indicators All Green (Mar 6)

For the first time in several years, it appears that all segments of cattle and beef markets are on the same page and responding to tightening supply fundamentals. The complex linkages across cattle and beef markets mean that the dynamics of market adjustments are relatively slow under the best of circumstances. Delays due to the pandemic in 2020 stretched into 2021 and drought impacts since late 2020 contributed to a delayed transition of fundamentals from feeder cattle markets, through fed cattle markets into beef markets. Cattle numbers have declined for several years since the peak beef cow herd in 2019. Declining calf crop numbers (from the 2018 peak) should have led to peak cyclical beef production by 2020. Pandemic delays pushed beef production from 2020 into 2021.

US: Midday Cash Livestock Markets (Mar 8)

Direct cash cattle trade is off to a slow start again on Mar 8. Packer inquiry remains very limited, with even a token bid nowhere to be found. Asking prices were around USD 166 to USD 167-plus live in the South, but still not established in the North. The Fed Cattle Exchange Auction on Mar 8 reported 7 lots totaling 1,055 head. None were sold. Opening prices were at USD 163, and high bids were at USD 163.25 to USD 164, but none of these met reserve prices of USD 165 to USD 167. Just a handful of live trade was reported in parts of Iowa on Mar 7 at USD 162. But not enough business has been conducted this week to establish any kind of an accurate trend. Boxed beef was lower at midday on light demand for light offerings. Choice beef was USD 1.58 lower at USD $286.35 and Select was USD 0.91 lower at USD 276.58.

US: Meat Production Estimates Mostly up on Month (Mar 8)

The USDA has increased its outlooks for 2023 red meat and poultry production, with gains in beef, broilers, and turkey canceling out a cut in pork. Beef is seen at USD 12.095M MT (26.665B pounds), up 77.11K MT (170M pounds) from February on higher slaughter estimates and larger placements into feedlots, with an average steer price of USD 162 per hundredweight, up USD 3, and higher consumption, along with steady imports and exports.

US: Feeder Cattle Higher on Lower Move In Corn (Mar 8)

Chicago Mercantile Exchange lives cattle futures were mostly higher, getting ready for the week’s direct business, and feeders were up on the lower move in corn. April live was down USD 0.52 at USD 165.45 and June was up USD 0.10 at USD 160.65. April feeders were USD 1.40 higher at USD 200.07 and May was up USD 1.95 at USD 206.15. It’s another quiet day for the direct cash cattle business. Bids failed to surface on Mar 8 and asking prices were around USD 166 to USD 167-plus live in the South, while the North remained quiet. It looks like the bulk of the week’s business will follow the trend of recent weeks and hold out until some time on Mar 9 and 10. 

Australia: Free-Range Cattle Reaches a Record and Is Almost Half the Work (Mar 6)

By 2022, feedlots have established themselves as a critical component of the Australian beef supply chain, accounting for a record 47% of total cattle slaughter. Domestic cattle penning capacity in 2022 continued its upward trajectory and the industry is expected to have space available for 1.532M head (assuming 100% utilization) in the fourth quarter of 2022. Compared to the fourth quarter of 2021, the increase is 5.5% representing 79 K head in 12 months. The total cattle finished in pens in 2022 was 2.74M head. Although the amount contracted compared to 2021, its percentage as a total of the work reached a record of 47%. The 10-year average for grain-fed animals is 38% of the total slaughter, so the 2022 percentage demonstrates the shift Australian livestock are making to produce more grain-fed beef.

Australia: Prices of Australian Cattle Continue to Ease in W9 (Mar 6)

The Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) continues to ease with increased sale yards providing a wide selection of good quality cattle on offer for processors. We saw a further easing in price from this time in W9 of USD 0.13/kg cwt (carcass weight) from USD 4.86/kg cwt in W9 to USD 473/kg cwt on March 6, 2023.

Australia: Lightweight Yearling Steers Under 200KG Make 564C/KG at Dalby (Mar 8)

The supply of stock at Dalby was reduced by 2,425 heads to 3,989. All the regular buyers were in attendance. Lightweight yearling steers returning to the paddock averaged 19c/kg dearer. Medium and heavy-weight yearling steers to feed remained firm. Lightweight yearling heifers returning to the paddock experienced very little change and yearling heifers to feed averaged 12c/kg dearer. Bullocks averaged 5c/kg less. Lightweight yearling steers under 200kg made to 564c/kg. Yearling steers to re-stockers under 280kg made to 498c with a large number at 462c/kg. Yearling steers to feed for the domestic market averaged from 399c to 420c and sold to 458c re-stockers lines in the same weight range made to 498c/kg. Heavy-weight yearling steers to feed averaged 374c and made to 382c/kg. Lightweight yearling heifers to re-stockers made to 376c to average 340c poor quality lines at 294c/kg.

Australia: Weekly Cattle Market Wrap (Mar 10)

For the first time since March 2020, the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) fell below 700¢/kg carcass weight (cwt) to 699.99¢/kg cwt. Overall, cattle yards eased in W10 to 46.76K head. Queensland had the largest softening in yards, 25% WoW for the state. Wetter conditions in some supply areas may have held back cattle from sale yards or finished conditions. National cattle yards for February were still stronger YoY by 5% with supply increasing nationally. Processor cow offerings increased in W10 with 329 head more through the indicator WoW with prices softening 8¢. Roma traded just under the national average at 264.27¢/kg live weight (lwt) and Mount Gambier had the largest premium on the national average as prices held firm at the sale yard.

Australia: Beef Cattle Prices Continue to Fall During W10 (Mar 10)

The Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) dropped below USD 4.61/kg Carcass Weight (cwt) to USD 4.60/kg cwt, for the first time since 2020. The continued fall in price is caused by an easing of demand for farmer's store cattle and the increased offering of finished cattle to the market.

Ireland: Beef Price Edges Back Up at Some Sites (Mar 6)

After two consecutive weeks of processors attempting to reduce beef prices, quotes for cattle have steadied, with at least one outlet increasing its base-price offering by 5c/kg for prime cattle and 10c/kg for cows. The number of cattle slaughtered at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM)-approved slaughter plants to date this year stands at 269.3K head (excluding veal). This figure is just 1.6K head of cattle behind last year’s supply of cattle, despite much concern there would be a significantly lower number of cattle finished this winter. While supplies of finished cattle are remaining steady, the number of finished cattle available is expected to drop in April and May. Heifers and steers Factory quotes for heifers range from USD 5.54/kg (€5.20) to USD 5.64/kg (€5.30) on the grid in W10. The lower rate is buying very few heifers and many outlets are having to pay from USD 5.59/kg (€5.25) upwards to secure heifers in W10. 

Ireland: Farmers Should Hold Firm Against Factories as Prices Rise (Mar 7)

Irish Farmer’s Association Livestock Chairman Brendan Golden said beef farmers should resist efforts by the factories to drag prices down. “The behavior of some factories in trying to reduce quotes shows no regard for farmers who have made huge investments in finishing cattle over the winter months,” he said. Brendan Golden said beef farmers know the impact of the Chinese market and will not be fooled by the usual factory propaganda in attempts to control the marketplace.

Ireland: Record High of 4.5K Calves Slaughtered in W9 (Mar 9)

Figures from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) have revealed that over 4.5K calves were slaughtered at DAFM-approved factories in the week ending Sunday, March 5. According to DAFM’s weekly beef kill reports, 4.55K category-V carcasses were reported in W9. A statement from DAFM to Agriland confirmed this is the highest reported weekly kill in this category on record. Category-V veal refers to bovines slaughtered from the day of birth until the day they are eight months old. The majority of calves are slaughtered in this category during the months of February, March, and April. Just under 28.4K calves were slaughtered at DAFM-approved factories in 2022. The 2022 calf kill increased by approximately 7.4K head on the 21K calves slaughtered in 2021. 

Ireland: No Sailing for 5K Calves Due to Weather Conditions (Mar 9)

Two companies that operate livestock shipping, including calves, from Ireland to Cherbourg, France, have been forced to suspend service because of adverse weather conditions. Agriland understands that the transport of 17 consignments, of approximately 300 calves each, which were due to depart on March 9 from Ireland to mainland Europe, will no longer go ahead. Met Éireann has advised that sea crossings from Ireland to France will be “rough, increasing very rough to high this evening” and will remain unsettled throughout March 10. Irish calf buyers who are supplying to markets in mainland Europe were less active at marts around the country this week because they were aware that weather conditions could potentially impact shipping services. 

Ireland: Sharp Rise in Calf Imports From Ireland to Netherlands (Mar 10)

The import of calves from Ireland was almost 94% higher in the first 8 weeks of 2023 than in the same period in 2022. 15.46K calves were imported from Ireland to the Netherlands for the veal calf sector. The figures come from the Irish Department of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries. Wakker Dier is concerned about this sharp increase and has made this known in an urgent letter to Minister Adema of Agriculture, Nature, and Food Quality.

Ireland: Kerry and Limerick Farmers Urged to Consider BVD Vaccination (Mar 10)

The chair of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) Animal Health Committee, TJ Maher has urged farmers in north Kerry and west Limerick to consider bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) vaccinations for their breeding stock. It comes as data from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has shown an increased concentration of cases of the disease in the region in recent months. Department staff has launched full targeted advisory service on animal health (TASAH) investigations into each of the cases. Animal Health Ireland (AHI) is due to speak with vets in the area as part of the investigation. 

France: The Number of Cattle Slaughtered in 2022 Has Decreased Significantly (Mar 10)

According to the statistical service of the French Ministry of Agriculture (Agreste), the gross domestic production of beef in 2022 was obtained from about 5.7M head of animals. That's 3.9% less than a year earlier. The number of cattle slaughtered in the country fell by 4.5% down to 4.26M units. Imports of slaughtered cattle decreased by 30.3% down to 37.52K units. The decline in exports to 41.61K units was less drastic and amounted to 13.2% compared to 2021. According to Agreste, the trade in slaughtered cattle and livestock has also shrunk. Here, imports increased by 2.2% to 9.07K animals, while exports fell by 2.7% to 1.44M head of cattle. Overseas, older male cattle, fatteners with a maximum weight of 300 kg, and female cattle were less sought after. Exports of older male cattle fell by 1.5% in 2022 to 701.97K units compared to the previous year.

Brazil: Hoping to Complete Opening of Mexico to Beef by W11 (Mar 6)

The Brazilian government expects to conclude negotiations for the export of beef to Mexico in the next few hours. The expectation of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (Mapa) is that the protocol can be signed on Mar 6 or at the latest at the beginning of W11. The only impediment to the signing of the phytosanitary protocols fell on Mar 5, with the confirmation that an isolated case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), a disease popularly known as “mad cow disease”, detected in an animal in Pará in February, was atypical. 

Brazil: Continuing With the Status of a Country With Insignificant Risk for Mad Cow, Points Out WHOA (Mar 6)

The scientific committee of the World Organization for Animal Health (WHOA) reported that Brazil continues with insignificant risk status for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE). Furthermore, the Organization reported that it closed investigations of the atypical case that was notified in the state of Pará in February. In its report, the Organization reiterated that Brazil has never diagnosed a classic case of the disease, thus maintaining, since 2012, official recognition by WHOA as a country of insignificant risk for mad cow disease. The entity also pointed out that Brazil has already registered six cases of BSE type H in more than 25 years of surveillance. 

Brazil: Canadian Laboratory Control Result Confirms BSE Atypicality (Mar 6)

On Mar 2, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Supply (MAPA) issued a note confirming that the isolated case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), detected in the municipality of Marabá (PA), is atypical according to the examination carried out by the reference laboratory of the World Organization for Animal Health (WHOA). Now the Brazilian authorities are carrying out the legal procedures for the release of beef exports to the Chinese market. Thus, refrigerators are still out of the purchase and await positioning from Chinese buyers to return to activities. São Paulo Ox, cow, and heifer prices remained stable in the day-to-day comparison. For the “China bull”, there were no purchase offers.

Brazil: Livestock Market Drops Sharply in February (Mar 6)

The drop in the livestock market is related to the fact that an animal was diagnosed with mad cow disease on a property in the interior of Pará. This fact caused a sharp drop in the prices of live cattle. The trade agreement with China suspends beef exports in the face of such an event, whether typical or atypical cases. The last time this happened was in 2021 and it took 100 days for the market to reopen. 

Brazil: Good Rains Help to Hold the Supply of Finished Cattle in São Paulo (Mar 10)

The São Paulo market remains cold, with several cold storage units still waiting for the resolution of the self-embargo on exports to China. The internal market, also affected, remained stable prices. With the greater supply of females, there was a drop of USD 0.96 (R$5.00)/@ cow in the daily comparison. The other categories had no change in the quotation.

Paraguay: Bovine Slaughter Registered 7.54K Fewer Heads in the First Two Months (Mar 6)

Between January and February of 2023, 303.67K heads (steers, bulls, cows, and heifers) were slaughtered in the 11 slaughterhouses set up in Paraguay. This figure represents a reduction of 7.54K heads (-2.4%) since up to the second month of 2022, 311.21K animals had been killed. Regarding the volume of slaughter, during the first two months of 2023, 74.573M kg were recorded, 252.46K kg less (-0.3%) than the 74.826M kg observed at the end of February 2022.

Paraguay: Steer Price Rebounds Due to Demand Pressure and Low Supply (Mar 10)

In the last seven days there was a slight improvement in the price of the Paraguayan steer, since it added 10 cents in one week (USD 3.40 kg/carcass), although there are divergences between the usual sources, clarifies the consultant. Notably, the week saw a 35-cent drop due to the impact of the mad cow outlier in Brazil and speculation that it could corner the Paraguayan meat markets. In W10, the delays in the first stage of the vaccination of animals against foot-and-mouth disease and bovine brucellosis, which are causing a more acute shortage of animals for slaughter, as well as the pressure of demand on the market, encouraged the rise in the price from the local hacienda, says Valor Carne. 

Argentina: Research Took the First Step Towards Reducing Cases of Cancer in Cattle (Mar 6)

A joint study by specialists from the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA) and the National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (Conicet), both from Argentina, described, for the first time, a molecular mechanism by which the bovine leukosis virus (BLV) triggers the development of tumors in cattle. One fact to bear in mind is that, due to the lack of a commercial treatment or vaccine against this pathogen, economic losses amount to millions of dollars. Although a high percentage of animals usually do not show symptoms during infection, between 1 and 10% may develop lymphomas. The study, published in the international journal Plos One, lays the groundwork for exploring the development of therapeutic strategies.

UK: Bovine Viral Diarrhea Figures Recorded at an All-Time Low in Northern Ireland (Mar 7)

The number of living BVD-positive animals in Northern Ireland is at its lowest since an industry eradication program began in 2016, figures show. Animal Health and Welfare Northern Ireland (AHWNI) have released the figures, highlighting that the livestock industry is moving in the right direction. Currently, only a small number of BVD positives are being retained on-farm for more than four weeks. The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) said farmers should be 'commended for their efforts' in reducing bovine viral diarrhea (BVD). A highly contagious disease, BVD is one of the most common and costly affecting cattle in Europe. Infection can result in a wide range of clinical signs including, reproductive problems, failure to conceive, abortion, and birth defects.

UK: Cattle Prices Buck Seasonal Trend in 2023 and Reach New Record Highs (Mar 12)

During February, prime cattle prices continued to set new record high levels at Scottish abattoirs according to the latest market commentary from Quality Meat Scotland (QMS). Latest figures from the industry body reveal R4L steers reached 489.2p/kg dwt in the week ending February 25th, an increase of 18.5% over the same week last year and of 30% compared to the five-year average. Iain Macdonald, QMS Market Intelligence Manager, explained: “It is unusual for market prices to be rising at this time of year. Indeed, between 2010 and 2022, R4L steer prices were lower in the eighth week of the year than in the first week of the year on 10 of 13 occasions. In addition, only in 2012 was the price at its highest of the year so far in week eight. Over the 13 previous years, there was an average reduction of 1.5% for the period but this year prices jumped 6% higher. 

Denmark: They Call for a Reduction in Meat Consumption, Which Would Help the Danish Government (Mar 11)

Danish citizens should cut their meat consumption by two-thirds and replace it with vegetables if the country is to meet its 2030 climate goals, according to a report translated by Reuters by a Danish government consultant. The Danish government should reduce carbon dioxide emissions to 30% of 1990 levels by 2030. To achieve this goal, the government should tax beef and other high-emission foods, the Danish Council on Climate Change (DCCC) recommended in its 2023 Status Report (Status Report 2023), according to Reuters. The organization, which is an independent adviser to the Danish government, has recommended taxing agricultural emissions to curb beef production.

Japan: Scientists Have Developed a Probiotic Formulation to Keep Calves Healthy (Mar 6)

Scientists in Japan have developed and tested a novel probiotic formulation to control severe diarrhea in calves, ensuring their health and reducing mortality, and in turn reducing economic loss. The health of calves is a crucial component in animal husbandry; diseases that affect calves cause economic losses to livestock farms either directly, due to the death of the calves, or indirectly, due to weight loss that reduces productivity over the animals’ lifespans. In Japan, bovine rotavirus (BRV) and bovine cryptosporidiosis infections are major diseases that cause severe diarrhea in calves. A team of scientists from Hokkaido, including Associate Professor Satoru Konnai of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Hokkaido University, have developed a novel probiotic supplement and verified its efficacy as an antidiarrheal medication for calves. 

Colombia: A New Bovine Embryo Market Opens for Colombia (Mar 10)

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Colombia and the Colombian Agricultural Institute (ICA) announced that the Senegal Veterinary Services Directorate has approved the health certificate for the importation of bovine embryos of Colombian origin to Senegal. A new bovine embryo market opens for Colombia. This was announced by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Colombia and the Colombian Agricultural Institute (ICA). According to the statement, Senegal's Directorate of Veterinary Services has approved the health certificate for the importation of bovine embryos of Colombian origin to this country. This news has been well received by the livestock sector, which sees in it an opportunity to continue expanding its production systems and contributing to the economic development of the country.

Hungary: Last Year Fewer Animals Were Slaughtered in Slaughterhouses Than the Year Before (Mar 10)

97.9K cattle were slaughtered in 2022. The live weight of slaughtered animals was 49.9K MT, and their carcass weight was 25.7K MT, the former representing a decrease of 11.5% and the latter 11.2%. Cattle slaughter in live weight averaged over 4.1K MT/month in 2022, the highest monthly value was in April, which exceeded 4.9K MT. 62% of slaughtered cattle were cows and 19% were bulls. Compared to 2021, the slaughter of cows decreased by 9.5%, heifers by 4.4%, and bulls by 13.7%.

Kazakhstan: Temporal Banning of the Import of Beef From Brazil (Mar 11)

The Committee for Veterinary Control and Supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan since March 9 introduced temporary restrictions on the import of cattle and beef from Brazil. The reason for this was the information from the World Organization for Animal Health (WAHIS) about the registration of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in the country. According to the Veterinary Control Committee, the import and transit of the following goods to Kazakhstan from the territory of Brazil are prohibited: live cattle; blood and blood-containing products of cattle; beef on the bone; beef offal; intestinal raw materials obtained from cattle, with the exception of peeled casings; beef obtained by mechanical deboning; boneless beef obtained from cattle older than 30 months; processed bovine proteins intended for food for productive animals and feed for productive animals.

Namibia: Shifeta Wants Hambukushu Cattle Out of Bwabwata (Mar 10)

The minister of environment, forestry, and tourism, Pohamba Shifeta, says the ministry will not allow traditional authorities to have cattle in Bwabwata National Park in north-eastern Namibia. “The reason why we are rejecting cattle in the park is not that the ministry does not want people to graze there but it is for economic reasons and to protect the beef industry,” said Shifeta. In the petition, the traditional authority requested the Cabinet to revisit its 1999 decision that no cattle be allowed in national parks or any other game park in the northeast.

Russia: Two Farms From Transbaikalia Received the Status of Breeding Reproducers (Mar 6)

Two farms from the Mogoytuysky district of the Zabaikalsky karya received the status of breeding reproducers for breeding cattle of the Kazakh white-headed breed. This was announced by Deputy Minister of Agriculture of Transbaikalia Alexander Tyukavkin. It should be noted that by the same order, another livestock enterprise from Transbaikalia, the Rassvet agricultural cooperative, operating in the Ononsky district, confirmed the breeding status for breeding cattle of the Kalmyk breed.

Russia: The Number of Cows in Subsidiary Farms in Tatarstan in 2022 Increased for the First Time in 17 Years (Mar 9)

The number of cows in personal subsidiary farms (LPH) in Tatarstan in 2022 increased for the first time since 2005, said the head of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of the Republic Marat Zyabbarov at the final board of the ministry. "According to the results of the year (2022 - IF), we have an increase in livestock in household plots by 511 cows. It should be noted that this is the first increase since 2005," Zyabbarov said. As of the end of 2022, 101K cows were kept in private household plots of the republic. The volume of their financial support from the budget of Tatarstan in 2023 will increase by 26%, up to USD 6.99M (536M rubles), the minister noted. According to him, the total amount of state support for small businesses in the republic amounted to USD 0.037B (2.8B rubles) in 2022. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of the Republic, in 2022, small forms of management, 474K private household plots, and 4K farms, produced agricultural products worth USD 1.86B (142.9B rubles), 42.9% of the gross output of the agro-industrial complex of the republic.

South Korea: Severe South Korean Beef Supply, Active Participation in Cow Reduction Project (Mar 7)

The supply and demand of Korean beef are not serious. As the oversupply of Hanwoo beef began in earnest, the downward trend in prices is expected to continue. According to observations by the Korea Rural Economic Institute in March, the number of breeding animals this year is expected to be 3.57M, a record high. As a result, the number of slaughtered animals is expected to increase by 8.5% YoY and 21.8% YoY to around 940K, and it is expected to further increase to about 1M next year. Due to an increase in the number of slaughtered animals and a decrease in demand, the wholesale price of Korean beef (geosewoo), which exceeded USD 15.30 (20K won) per kg last year, fell sharply to USD 12.62-13.39 (16.5K-17.5K won) in the first and second quarters and rose slightly to USD 13.01- 13.77 (17K-10K won) in the third quarter. It is expected to fall back to USD 12.62-13.39 (16.5K-17.5K won) in the fourth quarter after showing around 6.12 (8K won).

Turkey: A Helping Hand Was Extended From Denizli to the Cattle Producers Affected by the Earthquake (Mar 6)

All of Turkey mobilized in order to return life to normal in the earthquake area and to ensure the continuity of agricultural production. Denizli Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry continues to provide assistance to the earthquake victims and cattle breeders in the disaster area. The personnel and companies in the Provincial and District Directorates are trying to breathe life into the earthquake victims with their in-kind and cash contributions. Under the coordination of Hatay Coordination Governor Ali Fuat Atik, 75MT of flour to be used in the food and vaccine needs of the citizens affected by the earthquake, 96.82K kg of animal feed, tents, managers, waterers, and various materials to be used in meeting daily needs, in order to support the producers. A total of 71 aid trucks were delivered to the provinces of Şanlıurfa, Adıyaman, Kahramanmaraş, and Malatya, especially Hatay. At the same time, 571 ovine and 3 bovine animals were collected by the breeder sheep and goat breeders' association in 19 districts with 35 volunteers.

Turkey: 8 Businesses Were Quarantined, Live Animals Were Banned in Two of Turkish Provinces (Mar 9)

Following the detection of the first case carrying SAT-2 serotype foot-and-mouth disease in Turkey and the quarantine of 8 enterprises, a new development took place in Tunceli and Afyonkarahisar. In Tunceli, animals are banned from entering and leaving the city within the scope of foot-and-mouth disease measures. In Afyonkarahisar, animal markets were closed, and animal shipments in and out of the province were stopped.

Turkey: 400K Cattle Will Be Vaccinated Against Foot and Mouth Disease in AğRı (Mar 11)

In AĞRI, vaccination and disinfection activities against foot and mouth disease were initiated by the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry. 400K cattle will be vaccinated by teams due to SAT-2 serotype foot and mouth disease, which is also seen in Turkey. Vaccination and disinfection studies were started in Ağrı for prevention purposes. The teams that went to the villages against the SAT-2 serotype disease carried out disinfection work in the barns while vaccinating the cattle. It was stated that 400K animals will be vaccinated in Ağrı against the disease. It was noted that the owners of animals who do not have the vaccination will be fined USD 2.42K (46K liras).

Ukraine: The Export of Live Cattle in January Brought 4.7 Times More Revenue (Mar 8)

In January 2023, Ukraine sent USD 3.2M worth of live cattle for export. This is 4.7 times more than in the same period last year. Lebanon (44.5%), Egypt (31.7%), and Jordan (23.8%) bought the most domestic live cattle during January this year. There was no import of live cattle to Ukraine in the first month of 2023. 

Egypt: Safaga Port Receives 2,335 Head of Cattle Coming From Djibouti (Mar 9)

The port of Safaga received on Mar 9 the ship HAJH GHSNJ with 2,335 head of live cattle, weighing 812MT, coming from Djibouti. On Mar 8, the port received three ships: Freedom 2, Delilah, and Poseidon Express. The media center of the Red Sea Ports Authority announced that the total number of ships present at the authority's berths was 10 ships, 16K MT of general and various goods were handled, 768 trucks and 52 cars, and 1975 passengers arrived and traveled at its ports.

Morocco: Because of Mad Cow Disease, Morocco Tightens Import Procedures From Brazil (Mar 6)

Brazil announced the registration of the first confirmed case of mad cow disease, while earlier countries such as Iran, Jordan, and Thailand temporarily stopped importing beef from anywhere in Brazil. In Morocco, the National Office for Health Safety of Food Products confirmed that all live animals that are imported from abroad are strictly and regularly monitored at the border check posts. The ONSSA office stated that these strict procedures consist in examining the health status of imported animals and verifying evidence and documents. 

Peru: Study Shows High Levels of Genetic Diversity of Cattle (Mar 6)

A recent study has shown that the cattle of the Brahman, Braunvieh, Gyr, and Simmental breeds from the National Institute of Agrarian Innovation (INIA), of the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (Midagri) have a favorable genetic diversity of high-value, which will allow developing technologies for animal genetic improvement. The study has used molecular techniques of genotyping by panels of markers carried out by INIA, as part of the work of the Precision Agriculture-Agpres and PromegNacional projects, which seeks to strengthen the effective management of cattle genetic resources. According to the research, the Braunvieh breed has the highest observed heterozygosity (0.43±0.01), while the Brahman breed has the lowest (0.37±0.02). In addition, it was identified that the inbreeding coefficient (FIS) values had negative values for all breeds, evidencing that there is no consanguinity, but a large number of heterozygotes.

Zimbabwe: January Disease, a Haunting to Cattle in Insiza District (Mar 12)

The ghastly January disease that ‘devoured’ hundreds of cattle in Insiza Matabeleland North province has come back to haunt farmers and villagers, as there are new reports of cattle deaths from the district. Last month government implemented a mandatory quarantine on cattle movement, in an effort to prevent the disease from spreading and possibly contain it. However, like a vengeful spirit, the disease has returned and has claimed the lives of more cattle, leaving villagers and farmers in more distress.

Fresh Beef

Global: Beef Market Outlook Mixed (Mar 6)

A first-quarter global beef report for 2023 from Rabo-Research Food & Agribusiness shows continued shrinking of feeder supplies, but with different countries at different points in the cycle. In the US, the report notes that beef cow inventory is at its lowest point since 1962, and feed yard inventories are showing a decline. This drop is going to cause a "redistribution of global beef supplies and an overall tightening in the market" the analysts stressed. An anticipated 2% increase in beef production from Brazil was expected to offset declines in the US, EU-27, and New Zealand. In many regions, cattle prices were trending down, with the US being a notable exception due to more limited supplies. Brazilian beef exports in 2022 set new records in both volume and value, with China driving that trend (up 71% YoY) and the US being the second-largest destination. Retail beef prices in China have held up, but pork prices have fallen due to decreased consumption post-high COVID infection levels. It is believed that moving into spring, a recovery should be expected in the consumption of protein, and the value of the beef market will continue to grow, although volume may be flat. In Japan, high prices are reducing demand for beef, with a drop in consumption and an oversupply of imported beef. Import volumes of beef declined 12.6% YoY in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Global: China’s Recovery, a Reduced US Herd and Increased Export Opportunities (Mar 6)

Rabobank projected that a determinant for the world beef industry in 2023 will be the Chinese market, where the borders are being opened after three years closed as a measure to mitigate the advance of COVID-19 (coronavirus). This could lead to greater opportunities for the main exporters to diversify their shipments, especially towards the second half of the year, when demand from the Asian country is expected to increase. Estimates from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) indicated that in 2023, Chinese imports of bovine meat will total 3.5M MT, for a YoY increase of 2.1%, to cover the consumption of 10.8MT. In the financial entity of the Netherlands, they predicted that this year there will also be difficulties in meeting international demand, a situation largely caused by lower participation of the US meat industry, due to a reduction in its herd of cattle. 

Global: The FAO Meat Price Index Continues to Fall Globally (Mar 6)

The FAO meat price index stood at an average of 112.0 points in February, a slightly lower figure (0.1 points and 0.1%) than in January and 1.9 points (1.7%) below its value a year ago. Beef prices held steady, following continued declines since June 2022, as improved import buying, especially from North Asia, caused global demand to balance relatively well with current supplies.

Global: Beef Export Sales Hit Marketing Year Lows (Mar 9)

Net beef sales totaled 5.6K MT, a decrease of 31% from W9 and 67% from the four-week average. The reported purchasers were Japan (3.2K MT), Mexico (1.4K MT), China (500 MT), Canada (300 MT), and Hong Kong (200 MT), with a reduction in South Korea (1.1K MT). Shipments of 13K MT were 19% less than the prior week and 20% under the four-week average, primarily to South Korea (3.3K MT), Japan (3K MT), China (2.2K MT), Mexico (1.2K MT), and Taiwan (1.1K MT).

US: Slow Start for Beef Exports in January (Mar 9)

Beef exports declined to several major destinations in January, though shipments increased sharply to Mexico, the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, and Africa. January volume fell 15% YoY to 100.94K MT, valued at USD 702.3M (down 32%). Beef inventories swelled in some key markets near the end of last year, contributing to a challenging environment for US exports.

Australia: February Beef Exports Rise but Remain Low in Historical Terms (Mar 6)

There was a solid MoM and YoY increase in Australian beef exports in February, however, volume remains well below the five-year average for the month of 75.3K MT. As Australian weekly slaughter data shows, processing activity surged in February, hitting some of the biggest weekly slaughters seen in two and a half years. That put more beef in the system for export, with February data showing a figure of 70.38K MT swt, around 8% below the five-year average for the month. However, February trade was over 18K MT, 36% higher than January, which is traditionally the quietest trading month of the year due to the closure of processing plants in the summer. Comparisons to last year's February beef exports are of little value as large parts of Queensland and NSW were submerged in mid-February 2022, leading to lengthy processing plant closures and major arterial roads closed for days and up to weeks. 

Australia: Beef Exports Pick up the Pace (Mar 9)

February 2023 beef exports totaled 70.38K MT, 18% higher than February 2022. This was due to an increase of 34% in grass-fed exports to 47.17K MT tonnes. In comparison, grain-fed exports declined 5% YoY to 23.21K MT. Beef exports to Japan grew by 3% YoY to 16.66K MT, to South Korea grew 26% to 13.34K MT, to China grew by 9% to 12.53K MT, to the US grew by 30% to 11.62K MT, and to Indonesia grew by 237% to 6.30K MT. The substantial growth in the Indonesian market is the largest February increase for exports to Indonesia on record. This accounted for almost 9% of Australian beef exports in the month, the highest proportion of any month on record.

Mexico: Opening the Door to Brazilian Meat in an Attempt to Mitigate Inflation (Mar 7)

Mexico announced sanitary requirements on Mar 6 that open the door for the first time to the importation of beef from Brazil, while the government of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador seeks sources of food supply to combat high levels of inflation. Santa Catarina state will be able to export fresh, refrigerated, or frozen meat with bone since it has foot-and-mouth disease status without vaccination. Another 14 Brazilian states, among which are important producers such as Goiás, Mato Grosso, and Mato Grosso do Sul, will be able to export to Mexico only matured and boneless meat given their sanitary status free of foot-and-mouth disease with vaccination. Mexico's endorsement of Brazilian meat has been criticized by local producers who warn of health risks. Brazil has tried for years to get the North American country to grant it authorization to send meat to its territory.

Brazil: Brazilian Participation in Gulfood Opens up New Business Possibilities in the Arab Market (Mar 6)

With the closing of new deals and the strengthening of the image of Brazilian beef in the Arab market, the Brazilian Association of Meat Exporters (Abiec) ended its participation in Gulfood with a positive result. The entity took to the fair a stand from the Brazilian Beef project, carried out in partnership with the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex-Brasil), and was attended by 19 associated companies; Astra, Barra Mansa, Beauvallet, Comesul, Cooperfrigu, Frialto, Frigon, Frigosul, Frisa, Iguatemi, JBS, Marfrig, Mercúrio, Minerva, Naturafrig, Plena, Prima Foods, Supremo, and Zanchetta. During the five days of the event, deals in the order of USD 52.5M were closed and generated an expectation of USD 400.32M to be closed in the coming months.

Brazil: Assocon Is Part of a Technical Group to Review the Beef Export Contract to China (Mar 6)

The National Beef Livestock Association (Assocon) supports and is part of the Working Group (GT) created to review the beef export contract to China. The proposal, presented at a meeting of the sectoral chamber of the beef production chain, of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (Mapa), on February 28, was accepted and will focus, in particular, on adjustments to the terms of the current health protocol. Export regulations gained prominence in recent days when an isolated and atypical case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) was registered in the interior of Pará. The occurrence resulted in the immediate suspension of shipments to China of beef from all Brazilian states, affecting the production chain as a whole.

Brazil: Government of Goiás Hopes for a Quick Reestablishment of Beef Exports (Mar 6)

The Government of Goiás is closely monitoring the consequences of the suspension of imports of Brazilian meat by China, as a result of a case of the mad cow found in Pará. This is an atypical case, that is, it occurred due to natural causes in a single nine-year-old animal, ruling out the possibility of contamination, according to the results of the tests released on Mar 3, by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock ( Map). The note released by Mapa also informs that measures are already being taken in accordance with health protocols to resolve the impasse of exports to China. To this end, it will schedule a virtual meeting with the Chinese government in order to pass on official information and restore shipments to that country. The examination that proved the atypicality of the case was carried out by the reference laboratory of the World Organization for Animal Health (WHOA) in Canada.

Brazil: Abiec Says Meat Exports to China Will Return at the End of the Month (Mar 6)

The Brazilian Association of Meat Exporters (Abiec) reported that meat exports to China should resume at the end of March, after President Lula's visit to the dictator Xi Jinping, scheduled to start on the 28th. The sale of beef to the Asian market has been suspended for two weeks when the government of Pará confirmed a case of mad cow disease. In W9, the World Organization for Animal Health (WHOA), after laboratory tests, reported that this is an isolated and atypical case, that is, it emerged spontaneously and has no risk of dissemination in herds or humans.

Brazil: The Ministry of Agriculture Will Meet With Chinese Authorities to Lift the Embargo on Brazilian Beef (Mar 7)

The Ministry of Agriculture will hold a meeting with the Chinese health authorities Mar 7 to clarify information about the atypical case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in the state of Pará. The ministry's team seeks to move forward in talks for lifting the embargo on Brazilian beef exports. The scientific committee of the World Organization for Animal Health (WHOA) reported that Brazil continues with insignificant risk status for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE). In addition, the organization reported that it closed the investigations of the atypical case that was notified in the state of Pará in February. 

Brazil: Senasica Announces the Requirements for Brazil to Enter Beef Into Mexico (Mar 7)

Following up on the recent opening of the Mexican market for bovine meat from Brazil, the National Agrifood Health, Safety and Quality Service (Senasica) published the Zoosanitary Requirements Sheets (HRZ) to which the 15 authorized states must adhere. Only one state, Santa Catarina, will be able to send fresh, refrigerated, or frozen beef to Mexico, due to its certification before the OMSA as "free of foot-and-mouth disease without vaccination". 14 more states will have to export meat with specifications such as maturation and deboning to mitigate health risks.

Brazil: Expectation to Produce 10.57M MT of Beef in 2023 (Mar 8)

Brazil is expected to produce 10.57M MT of beef (in carcass equivalent) in 2023, according to information released by the Gain Report bulletin, by attachés of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The volume should exceed the 10.35M MT produced in 2022. To reach this volume, the country must slaughter 43.42M cattle in 2023 compared to 42.250M animals slaughtered in 2022. The forecast is that the country will export 3.012M MT of beef in 2023, compared to the 2.898M MT exported in 2022. Domestic consumption should reach 7.594M MT this year, compared to the 7.524M MT consumed in 2022. 

Brazil: Expectation Regarding the Resumption of Purchases by China Prevails in the Market (Mar 8)

The World Organization for Animal Health (WHOA) released on Mar 6, in a statement to the international market, that the sanitary status of Brazil, regarding Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (EBB), remains insignificant in terms of risk to public health. Exports, from now on, involve political issues and dialogue between the governments of Brazil and China. The resumption is expected to be brief. Slaughterhouses in São Paulo are gradually returning to purchases, except for exporting plants, which are awaiting a new position. With the supply of cattle adjusted to demand, prices are stable in the daily comparison. For the “China bull”, there were no purchase offers. Santa Catarina With shorter slaughter schedules and greater demand, the offer of purchases for live cattle improved by USD 0.38/@ (R$2.00). For the cow and heifer, the quotations are stable in the day-to-day comparison.

Brazil: Beef Exports Amount to USD 695.2M in February (Mar 8)

Brazilian exports of beef (in natura and processed) totaled USD 695.2M, equivalent to 152.28K MT, informs the Brazilian Association of Frigorificos (Abrafrigo). The numbers represent a drop of 29% in foreign currency and 16% in volume compared to February 2022, when shipments of the product totaled USD 974.3M, representing 181.73K MT. The drop was partly caused by the suspension of beef exports to China. On February 22, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (Mapa) determined the interruption of shipments of the product to the Chinese country, due to an atypical case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), better known as “mad cow disease”, in a 9-year-old bovine from a rural property in Pará. In the first two months, foreign sales of beef reached USD 1.546B, with shipments of 336.02K MT. The numbers represent a 13% drop in revenue and 1% in volume, compared to the same period in 2022, when revenue was USD 1.772B, with shipments of 339.19K MT.  

Brazil: Planning to Export 3M MT of Beef in 2030 (Mar 9)

After the record of 2.3M MT of beef exported in 2022, projections indicate that Brazil would surpass the 3M mark between 2025 and 2030. This was stated by the Brazilian Association of Meat Exporters (Abiec). The association indicated that with 2.3M MT of bovine meat shipped in 2022, Brazil ended that year as the world's largest beef exporter. This volume is 22.6% higher than that registered in 2021 of 1.8M MT. In addition, Abisec data showed that revenue from these sales increased by 40.8% between January and December 2022 compared to the same period in 2021. They now project exports to exceed the 3M MT mark between 2025 and 2030. In this scenario, meat production must increase by 35% by 2030 to ensure supply to the internal and external markets. For the increase to be possible, an increase of 45% in the average productivity of Brazilian livestock will be necessary, underlines the report. 

Brazil: In February, Beef Exports to China Show a Significant Monthly and Annual Decline (Mar 9)

At the opening of the year, the volume shipped to Chinese territory reached almost 99K MT, 54.4% of the total exported in the month, meaning monthly maintenance and a significant increase of almost 88% over January 2022. In February, the volume reached just 71.7K MT, 49.4% of the total exported in the month, absorbing drops of 27.5% compared to last January and 17.6% over the same period last year. In any case, the monthly volume destined for China has shown a strong retraction since September, when it reached the highest volume in the analyzed period. With that, shipments show a retraction of 47.5% in the short period of 5 months.

Brazil: Beef Consumer Price Dropped by 7.8% In the Last 6 Months (Mar 10)

The survey carried out by the Institute of Agricultural Economics in a large number of supermarkets, butchers, and street markets in the city of São Paulo during February points out that the price of a kg of beef available to consumers continues to show a decline. In the month, the price reached USD 7.60 (R$40.01), meaning drops of 2.4% over last January and 2.8% over February of last year. The average price reached in the first two months reached USD 7.69 (R$40.50), meaning increases of 0.9% over the same period last year, while in the last 12 months, March 2022 to February 2023, it still points to an increase of 7%. Monitoring the average price for consumers over the last 3 years points to an almost uninterrupted evolution until August of last year, impacted by exports to China, which contributed to keeping the domestic price warm. However, since then, the price has been retracting, falling by 7.8% in the last 6 months. With this, little by little, beef begins to regain greater prominence at the table of consumers to the detriment of other alternative proteins of a lower acquisition value.

Argentina: Meat Exports Grew in January, Driven by Chinese Demand but Low Prices (Mar 6)

Argentine beef exports registered an increase of 3.5% in volume and 7.9% in value in January, compared to December. This was particularly due to the impact of increased demand from the Chinese market. In the first month of the year, sales abroad of refrigerated and frozen beef reached a volume close to 50.4K MT by product weight for a value of the order of USD 206.4 M, ABC specified. Compared to January 2022, the volumes exported are 30.9% higher, while the value obtained was 4.1% lower. The average price was USD 4,097/MT last January; 4.3% higher than that obtained in December 2022 and 26.7% lower than the average price of January 2022, which had been USD 5.59K/MT. In recent months, there has been a “persistent downward trend” in prices in the main destinations, from May onwards, reaching minimums in December 2022, with USD 3,928/MT. The average USD 4,097/MT obtained in January 2023 was USD 2.2k below the maximum recorded in April. 

New Zealand: The Current Dynamics in the US Beef Market Spell Good News for New Zealand (Mar 7)

Stratospheric cow slaughter tallies have essentially clogged the US beef supply for a while, but the drought there has broken and that’s good news for bull farmers in New Zealand. The news from exporters continues to be positive for bull farmers. The United States market for manufacturing beef fell away noticeably in the fourth quarter of 2022 but has been on an upwards trajectory, gaining pace since the start of February. Prices for the US’s own lean grinding beef have lifted USD 24c/lb since mid-December, and the imported market that New Zealand trades on has jumped by a similar margin. Once you factor in the better exchange rate, imported 95CL bull meat is paying around USD 1.06/kg (NZ$1.70) more than at that low point in December, and imported 90CL cow meat is up USD 1.10kg since then. The main driver here is the US cow kill, or rather what it’s expected to do over the coming months. 

New Zealand: Subdued Start to the Year for Red Meat Sector Exports (Mar 8)

New Zealand’s red meat sector exports had a slow start to the year with total export values down by 7% compared to January 2022, according to an analysis by the Meat Industry Association (MIA). The volume of beef exports was unchanged at 42.12K M MT, but there was a drop in value of 11% to USD 358M compared to January 2022. However, this still represented the second-highest export value for January month. While there was an overall drop in the volume and value of beef exports to the major North Asian markets (China, Japan, Korea), export volumes to the US rose by 12% to 14.32K MT, though the value decreased (down 6% to USD 116M).

UK: Importing High-Carbon Beef and Low-Welfare Pork in Trade Deals (Mar 9)

Post-Brexit trade deals with Canada and Mexico will include imports of high-carbon beef and low-welfare pork, the Guardian can reveal. There are fears there could be a Conservative party revolt, with the former environment secretary George Eustice raising concerns over low welfare standards for pigs in Canada, and an influential group of Tory MPs and peers gearing up to oppose the deals. The deals also go against the advice of the Climate Change Committee, which wrote to the farming minister, Mark Spencer, after he refused to rule out Mexican beef imports. The committee said the UK’s carbon targets could be “compromised by a decision to allow the importation of meat with a higher carbon footprint than our own”. 

UK: Meat Mislabeled British in Supermarket Sparks Concern (Mar 10)

The National Food Crime Unit is investigating after pre-packed meat and deli products labelled ‘British’ were found to be from South America and Europe. A food fraud investigation is now underway after troubling reports of mislabeled meat products appearing in a UK supermarket. The Food Standards Agency’s NFCU said the investigation concerns pre-packed sliced meat and deli products, not minced beef, burgers or steak. NFCU deputy head Andrew Quinn said it is not a food safety issue, but a matter of “food fraud”. 

Colombia’s Packaged Meats in the Chinese Market and Good Livestock Practices (Mar 7)

The opening of new markets for exports has been one of the largest that Colombia has had, especially when it comes to shipping beef. Miguel Ángel Lacouture Arévalo in his most recent opinion column states that Colombia, due to its geographical location, diverse thermal floors, cattle herd, and extensive fertile lands, is a country with an agricultural vocation. For this reason, in recent years there has been a constant growth in livestock exports, live cattle, and special cuts to different markets around the world. The professional assures that today there is an opportunity for packaged meats in the Chinese market, given the suspension of shipments of this material by Brazil, the world's largest meat producer to China, the latter being the largest importer of butchered meats.

Russia: The Average Consumption of Beef in the Russian Federation Has Decreased by 1KG Over Five Years (Mar 7)

The share of beef in a Russian meat plate is gradually decreasing. Over the past five years, it has decreased on average from 20% to 18% by the end of 2021, in absolute terms. Per capita consumption has decreased on average by 1 kg to 9 kg/person. This is stated in the NRA study, which analyzed official statistics for 2017-2021. In 2022, according to the estimates of the National Pig Producers Union, the share of beef on dinner tables will decrease by another 1.9% (the results have not yet been summed up). While the volume of pork and poultry will increase by 5.9 and 2% respectively. 

South Korea: All-Out Efforts to Stabilize South Korean Beef Supply and Demand by Increasing Government Subsidy by USD 0.018B (Mar 7)

The government subsidy of the Korean beef fundraiser has been increased by USD 0.018B (KRW 23B), and it is planned to be reflected first in Korean beef discount events related to measures to stabilize the supply and demand of Korean cattle. It was announced that the total budget for this year was adjusted to USD 0.048B (62.54768B won), with an increase of USD 0.018B (23B won) to 0.025B (32.2B won). This is a 58.8% increase from last year, and USD 3.4M (KRW 4.4B) for Korean beef supply and demand stabilization projects, such as Korean beef discount sales events, online Korean beef marketplace, Korean beef export support, low-fat Korean beef consumption promotion, Korean beef consumption promotion support, and Korean beef cattle breeding support for non-breeding and breech-breeding cattle.

South Korea: Government, Distribution, Korean Beef Farmers, and Consumers, ‘Joining Hands’ for Reasonable Korean Beef Prices (Mar 10)

It is expected that the government, producers, distributors, and consumers will jointly promote a transparent distribution collaboration system to establish a rational consumption culture of Korean beef, and the rights and interests of consumers will also be improved. A total of 9 institutions and organizations, including Mart and the Consumer Public Interest Network, attended, and the 'Coexistence Agreement Ceremony with the Government, Hanwoo Farmers, Distributors, and Consumers' was held. In January, the wholesale price of Korean beef was USD 12.18/kg (15,904 won), a 16.5% drop from the same period last year. 

Turkey: Alum Brake on Meat Hikes (Mar 11)

While the wrong policies implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry dragged Turkey into a dead end in animal husbandry, the ever-increasing meat prices finally stopped in W10. Carcass cutting prices have increased by only 50 cents in the last week. According to the carcass cutting prices published by UKON, the average price of a lean cut of beef, which was USD 9.24 (175.68 liras) last week, became USD 9.27 (176.21 liras) in W10. 

Egypt: Veterinary Services Confirm the Continuation of Importing Brazilian Meat (Mar 6)

The Ministry of Agriculture, represented by the Veterinary Services Authority, decided to continue importing Brazilian meat to the local market. Major General Dr. Ehab Saber, head of the Veterinary Services Authority at the Ministry of Agriculture, told Al-Mal that the meeting of the committee concerned with following up on the emergence of mad cow disease in Brazil, which lasted for 5 hours on Mar 5, resulted in the continuation of bringing in Brazilian meat, especially since it was not imported from the state affected by the disease. Bara, which is prevalent in herds of advanced age, points to the existence of committees that closely monitor the quality of meat, whether live or slaughtered, before importing it to Egypt.

China: Aiming to Produce 7.4M MT of Beef in 2023 (Mar 10)

China should produce 7.4M MT of beef (in carcass equivalent) in 2023, according to information released by the Gain Report bulletin, by attachés of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The volume must exceed the 7.180M MT produced in 2022. To reach this volume, the country must slaughter 49M cattle next year, above the 47.82M animals slaughtered in 2022. The country should import 3.4M MT of beef, below the 3.502M MT purchased in 2022. The forecast is that the country will export 21K MT of beef in 2023, a volume slightly higher than the 20K MT registered in 2022. With regard to imports, it is worth mentioning that the suspension of Brazilian exports of Brazilian beef to China, in view of the case of mad cow disease registered in the country at the end of February, will impact a slight decrease in the final numbers.

China: Stable Beef Prices for the Chinese Market From Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile During W10 (Mar 11)

In W10, Uruguayan meat confirmed to China, priced shin & shank at USD 6.9K/MT, USD 5K/MT CFR for chuck & blade, round cuts at USD 6-6.1K/MT CFR, eye round USD 6.9K/MT, and flank 13 ribs (5+4+4) at USD 5.6-5.7/MT CFR. In Argentina, reference prices stood at USD 5K/MT CFR for the cow in 6 cuts. From Chile the price of cow quarter for China is at USD 4.95K/MT CFR.

China: The Chinese Market Remains Stable During W10 After the Export Closure of Brazilian Beef (Mar 11)

While the wrong policies implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry dragged Turkey into a dead end in animal husbandry, the ever-increasing meat prices finally stopped in W10. Carcass cutting prices have increased by only 50 cents in the last week. According to the carcass cutting prices published by UKON, the average price of a lean cut of beef, which was USD 9.24 (175.68 liras) last week, became USD 9.27 (176.21 liras) in W10.