Honduran beef market faces crisis as drought and exports push prices up

Honduran cattle producers warned that a combination of severe drought, rising feed costs and unchecked export of reproductive cows could trigger a sharp shortage of beef in the country. Feed expenses have jumped from about 15 lempiras per animal per day to roughly 120 lempiras, a rise of around 400%, according to sector representative Edwin Molina. He said the current market price of beef, around 95‑100 lempiras per pound, could climb to 155‑165 lempiras if the situation is not addressed.

The drought has reduced pasture quality, limiting weight gain in cattle, while the export of pregnant cows to Guatemala and Mexico depletes the national breeding herd. Farmers also reported cattle deaths in Santa Bárbara due to water scarcity and disease. Molina called on the government to regulate cattle exports, provide feed subsidies and financing, and establish measures to protect domestic beef supply.