Israel increases beef imports, reports USDA

ISRAEL – Israel’s demand for beef has surged over the last decade, driven by population growth and higher individual consumption levels, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The country has experienced a 60% increase in overall beef consumption over the past seven years, while per capita consumption has risen by 35% since 2015. 

Imports of beef have almost doubled in the last ten years, reflecting the growing reliance on foreign suppliers.

Argentina has emerged as the top supplier of beef to Israel, providing 36% of imports.

It is the third-largest market for Argentine beef in 2023, following China and the European Union in terms of both volume and revenue.

In 2023, Israel’s total beef consumption reached 176,000 metric tons, up from 111,000 metric tons in 2015. 

This marks a significant increase, although slightly below the 2022 peak of 197,000 metric tons. 

The breakdown of beef consumed in Israel last year reveals a diverse sourcing structure: 71,000 metric tons of frozen beef imports, which showed a modest 10% growth over the decade; 52,000 metric tons of beef produced from imported cattle, which expanded by 135%; 29,000 metric tons of chilled beef imports, reflecting a substantial 15-fold increase; and 24,000 metric tons of beef derived from locally raised cattle, a figure that has remained unchanged.

The USDA’s analysis of imports in 2021 highlights the key countries supplying beef to Israel. 

After Argentina, Brazil accounted for 21% of imports, followed by the European Union at 19%, with Poland as a notable contributor. 

Other suppliers included Paraguay and Uruguay (9% each), Australia (4%), and the United States (2%).

The rise in per capita beef consumption is also notable, increasing from less than 15 kilograms in 2015 to approximately 20 kilograms in 2022 and 2023. 

The data shows a steady growth trend as the market shifts towards a higher proportion of chilled beef imports.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.