Brazil's fat cattle prices plunge across major markets in July 2026

The spot price of "vaca gorda" (fat cow) fell sharply at the start of July 2026, with key auction centres in São Paulo – Barretos and Araçatuba – and in Minas Gerais registering declines. Prices dropped to R$308.50 per arroba spot and R$312 for 30‑day contracts, while many other regional markets also moved lower, leaving only a few locations showing modest stability.

Futures for December 2026 were equally volatile. Between 22 June and 26 June the December contract fell from R$359.1 to R$351.3 per arroba, yet the premium over the physical market rose to about R$14.1 per arroba – the highest level observed this year. Physical prices remain under pressure, down more than 3 % from May and at their lowest since February, reflecting broader uncertainty in Brazil's cattle sector.