Beef market faces firm prices due to global cattle shortages

The international beef market is entering a period of sustained high prices driven by structural shortages in cattle supply. Carlos Riusech, CEO of Frigorífico Gorina, noted during the SIAL fair in Paris that a global deficit of livestock is affecting major producers, including Argentina and the United States.

This shortage is prompting a global cycle of cattle retention. In Paraguay, the Association of Paraguayan Meat Producers and Exporters (Appec) reports that a reduction in cattle slaughter is a consequence of previous years marked by prolonged droughts and low profitability for producers.

To rebuild herds, producers are currently retaining females to increase future calf production. While international demand for red protein remains high, Appec manager Claudia Bogado noted that local producers face challenges such as currency fluctuations, even as improved market conditions encourage them to reinvest in their livestock operations.