Argentina’s meat exports reach US$3.02B in 2024, report shows
ARGENTINA – The latest report from the Consortium of Argentine Meat Exporters (ABC) shows that beef exports grew in 2024, despite ongoing market challenges.
Total shipments for the year reached 768,600 tonnes, generating US$3.02 billion in revenue, a 12.5% rise in volume and an 8.7% increase in value compared to 2023.
China remained the primary destination, absorbing 73.8% of total exports, followed by Europe, Israel, and the United States.
Chilled and frozen meat exports accounted for the bulk of shipments, with 108,900 tonnes of chilled beef, a 12.5% increase from the previous year, and 474,200 tonnes of frozen boneless beef, which rose by 3.9%.
Revenue from beef sales totaled US$3.02 billion, with the average export price in December standing at US$4,430 per tonne, 19.9% higher than the same month in 2023.
The offal and processed meat segment contributed 124,800 tonnes, valued at US$200.4 million, with an average price of US$1,600 per tonne.
China remained the dominant buyer, importing 25,600 tonnes of frozen boneless beef for US$99.7 million and 15,300 tonnes of bone-in beef for US$24.6 million.
The average price per tonne of beef exported to China was US$3,900 in December, lower than the US$5,900 recorded in 2022.
Exports to Europe reached 4,300 tonnes in December, an 18% increase compared to the previous year, with chilled boneless beef selling at an average of US$10,451 per tonne.
Kosher beef shipments to Israel rose as certification processes resumed, bringing total exports in December to 3,600 tonnes.
Beef exports to the United States grew by 45.5% in 2024, reaching an annual total of 34,800 tonnes.
Mexico, which opened its market in 2023, imported 9,400 tonnes of Argentine beef in 2024.
The offal market showed steady growth, with 11,300 tonnes exported in December, generating US$17.7 million in revenue.
Products such as bovine tongues, livers, and tails found demand in Russia, South Africa, and Hong Kong.
Despite growth in volume and value, the industry faces challenges, including declining global beef prices, heavy reliance on China, and increasing sustainability requirements in markets like Europe and the United States.
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