Brazilian cattle futures hit record highs as Chinese demand fuels price surge

On June 11, 2026, the futures price for "boi China" – cattle earmarked for export to China – climbed to a peak of R$ 355 per arroba in São Paulo and Paragominas, Pará, with other key regions ranging from R$ 340 to R$ 352. The rally reflects a tight supply of finished cattle, short slaughter runs and strong interest from Chinese importers. Export‑oriented producers are retaining stock, preserving margins despite the usual caution of exporters.

Domestic "boi gordo" prices also rose, with the reference level reaching R$ 360 per arroba for the China‑bound segment and R$ 350 for the internal market. Wholesale activity remains firm and carcass prices have stayed around R$ 24.76 per kilogram, reinforcing the upward trend.

Analysts caution that the market’s momentum could be tempered by uncertainties over China’s import quota, which may tighten further in July. Nonetheless, the current combination of constrained supply and export demand is sustaining high price levels across Brazil’s cattle market.