BEEF EXPORTS GROW 37.9% IN JANUARY, REACHING U$$ 1.4 BILLION

Brazilian beef supply chain exports began 2026 maintaining the strong momentum recorded last year. In January, shipments of fresh beef, processed products, and by-products generated US$ 1.416 billion in revenue for the country, a 37.9% increase compared to the same month in 2025.

Export volume reached 278 thousand tons, representing a 16.4% increase compared to January of the previous year, when the sector shipped 239 thousand tons and generated US$ 1.027 billion in revenue. The data comes from the Secretariat of Foreign Trade (Secex), under the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services (MDIC), compiled by the Brazilian Association of Meat Packers (Abrafrigo).

China maintained its position as the leading buyer of Brazilian beef. In January, exports to the Asian country totaled US$ 650.33 million, a 44.9% increase in revenue, with shipments reaching 119.96 thousand tons (+31.6%).

China’s share represented 43.1% of total exported volume and 45.9% of sector revenues. Considering only fresh beef, the share rises to 51.2% in volume and 50.34% in revenue.

However, sales to the Chinese market are expected to face restrictions throughout 2026. The Chinese government established a quota of 1.1 million tons for Brazilian beef imports. Volumes exceeding this limit will be subject to an additional 55% tariff, which may make extra-quota shipments unviable.

The United States recorded strong growth in purchases. Fresh beef exports increased 92.7% in revenue, reaching US$ 161.6 million, while shipped volume rose 62.9%, totaling 26.96 thousand tons.

Including by-products, revenue from the U.S. market reached US$ 193.74 million, an increase of 39.41%, reflecting the recovery of demand in the country, according to Abrafrigo.

Font: PortalBoiGordo & CanalRural