Brazil’s beef exports hit record $9.85 billion in first half of 2026

Brazil’s beef industry posted a historic performance in the first half of 2026, exporting 1.705 million tonnes and generating US$ 9.85 billion in revenue – a 39.2% increase over the same period a year earlier. June alone delivered a record US$ 1.82 billion, the highest monthly turnover on record.

The United States and China remained the top buyers. Exports to the United States fell in volume to 22.29 thousand tonnes in June, but the price per kilogram rose to US$ 6.08, keeping overall earnings high. China absorbed 1.1 million tonnes under a tariff‑free quota, accounting for the bulk of the growth.

Live cattle exports also surged, with sales more than tripling in June compared with 2025, indicating a diversification of Brazil’s protein trade. The record shipments were achieved despite a slowdown in domestic demand and ongoing negotiations with the European Union over sanitary standards.