Live Cattle Exports Reach 883.5 Thousand Head: Highest Volume in History

Brazilian live cattle exports reached a historic milestone in 2024, solidifying the year as the best recorded in the sector. By November, 883.5 thousand heads had been shipped, surpassing the previous record set 2018. According to the Secretariat of Foreign Trade (Secex), Turkey remained the leading destination for Brazilian cattle exports.

This remarkable growth reflects the sector’s recovery after significant challenges, such as the impacts of the pandemic and rising maritime freight costs between 2019 and 2021. According to Alcides Torres, an analyst at Scot Consultoria, “The results of 2024 demonstrate the resilience of the Brazilian livestock sector and its ability to adapt to the demands of the international market, even in the face of recent adversities.”

Exponential Growth in Exports

According to Secex data analyzed by Scot Consultoria, export volumes in 2024 grew by 51.7% compared to 2023, when 582.3 thousand head were shipped. This performance was driven by growing international demand, particularly from Turkey, which increased its imports to stabilize local prices and ensure food security.

“The quality, breed, and competitive pricing of Brazilian livestock make the country a strategic partner for nations like Turkey, which seek reliable and sustainable supply chains,” Torres said.

Pará: Leading Export State

The state of Pará reaffirmed its leadership in the market, accounting for 56.1% of live cattle exports in 2024, equivalent to 495.6 thousand head. Pará also led with USD 428.5 million in revenue, representing 58.2% of the national total.

“Pará had already been consolidating its position as the leading exporting state in recent years, and in 2024, it delivered an exceptional performance, strengthening its leadership with impressive volumes and efficient logistics,” Torres highlighted.

Turkey: Key Market

Turkey solidified its position as the largest buyer of Brazilian cattle in 2024. In November, the country accounted for 41.6% of monthly revenue and 29.5% of the exported head. For the year, Turkey represented 31.7% of total cattle exports (280.3 thousand head) and 29.3% of total revenue (USD 215.74 million).

According to Torres, “The closer relationship between the Turkish government and Brazil, particularly during events like the G20 Summit, underscores Turkey’s continued interest in Brazilian cattle as a solution for food security and price stability.”

Record Revenue

In addition to growth in volume, the sector posted record revenue in 2024. By November, it had generated USD 736.79 million, surpassing the previous best years, such as 2013 (USD 717.21 million) and 2014 (USD 674.99 million). This result highlights increased demand and the added value of Brazilian livestock products in the global market.

“It’s not just the volume that impresses, but also the rise in the value added to exports. This demonstrates how Brazil has diversified and added value to its livestock production,” Torres evaluated.

Promising Outlook

With the potential for increased purchases from Turkey in December 2024, it is expected to close with even more impressive figures. Brazil is cementing its position as a key global live cattle market supplier, offering quality, competitive prices, and large-scale production capacity.

“The live cattle market has significant growth potential. Brazil is well-prepared to meet global demand with livestock that combines quality genetics and robust production capabilities,” Torres concluded.

Source: CompreRural

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