Brazil sets new record for beef exports in 2024, reaching US$12.8B

BRAZIL – Brazil’s beef exports in 2024 have hit an all-time high, with 2.89 million tons shipped internationally, marking a 26% increase from the previous year. 

According to data from the Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce, and Services (MDIC), compiled by the Brazilian Association of Meat Exporting Industries (Abiec), these exports generated US$12.8 billion, up by 22% from 2023. 

The beef sector was a major contributor to Brazil’s trade surplus, which totaled US$74.6 billion in 2024.

China remained the largest importer of Brazilian beef, purchasing 1.33 million tons valued at US$6 billion. 

The United States followed with imports of 229,000 tons, bringing in US$1.35 billion. 

Other key markets included the United Arab Emirates (132,000 tons worth US$604 million), the European Union (82,300 tons at US$602 million), Chile (110,000 tons for US$533 million), and Hong Kong (116,000 tons valued at US$388 million).

Among the 15 top destinations, which accounted for over 90% of total export revenue, all recorded increases compared to the previous year. 

Significant growth was observed in Algeria, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines, the United States, Russia, and Israel.

In total, Brazil exported beef products to 157 countries in 2024. 

Fresh meat accounted for more than 90% of the export value, with shipments sent to 132 markets—46 more than were served a decade ago.

The growth is attributed to joint efforts by the private sector and government initiatives, such as the Brazilian Beef Project, a collaboration between Abiec and the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil). 

The project aims to expand existing markets while negotiating entry into new ones, including Japan, Vietnam, Turkey, and South Korea.

Abiec President Roberto Perosa expressed optimism about future prospects, stating that while it is too early to predict, 2025 could surpass 2024’s record-breaking performance. 

He emphasized the ongoing negotiations to access larger global consumer markets as part of efforts to sustain growth.

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