[REVISION HISTORY]

South American agricultural and livestock market trends

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2026-10-22 05:12 UTC → 2026-10-22 13:26 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Agricultural and livestock markets in South America face diverse economic pressures and shifting production strategies. In Uruguay, the industry is addressing cattle availability through a pilot program involving Minerva and Prolesa to integrate male calves from dairy farms into the beef supply chain. Industry leaders at Expo Prado have emphasized sustainable intensification, combining natural pasture grazing with intensive finishing methods. Market specialist Simon Quilty noted Uruguay’s strategic advantages against competitors facing sanitary and tariff barriers, while also noting how Middle East conflicts and US tariff changes on ground beef impact global supply. In Argentina, the industry shows contrasting trends. While the breeding animal market is growing—with a 22% increase in reproductive animal movement between January and August 2026—the meat processing sector remains in crisis. Domestic slaughterhouses have reported eight consecutive months of losses due to a 10% drop in slaughtering, stagnant prices, and surging industrial ~~costs, such as electricity and insurance. Additionally,~~ costs. Within the pork ~~industry faces~~ sector, the province of Entre Ríos has emerged as the country’s fourth largest producer, contributing approximately 8% to 9% of national production. However, a ~~trade deficit driven by rising imports~~ lack of local infrastructure means nearly 70% of pigs raised there are sent to slaughterhouses in other jurisdictions like Buenos Aires and ~~concerns over sanitary controls.~~ Santa Fe. In Paraguay, producers are prioritizing female retention and nutritional preparation to rebuild cattle stocks. ~~While slaughter volumes previously saw significant declines, the~~ The feedlot sector ~~now~~ anticipates increased profitability through 2027 due to high international prices and a shortage of animals for slaughter. ~~Although rainfall has occasionally hindered animal transport, negotiation bases remain stable, with bonuses for pasture-raised~~ César Borba, director of Granusa, noted that while producing one kilogram of carcass costs between US$ 2.50 and ~~feedlot animals pushing prices higher. Industry experts continue to emphasize maximizing productivity~~ US$ 3.50, finished cattle are selling for approximately US$ 5.60 per ~~female by improving weaning rates and heifer service ages through better genetics and management.~~ kilogram. Despite these attractive margins, high replacement costs for livestock remain a significant challenge.

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