Argentina to increase beef production in 2027

Argentina’s beef production could rise to 3.14 mln tons CWE in 2027, around 3% above the 2026 estimate. Growth is expected to come mainly from higher average carcass weights and a modest increase in cattle slaughter.

Cattle slaughter is forecast at around 12.8 mln head. Producers are being encouraged by strong export demand for heavier animals, favorable feed costs and a more attractive price relationship between feeder cattle and slaughter-ready animals.

Argentine producers are increasingly extending feeding cycles and raising animals to heavier weights before slaughter. The trend is also supported by wider use of corn in feeding and greater involvement of export-oriented meat processors seeking more reliable supplies of well-marbled cattle.

Argentina’s beef exports are forecast at around 800 thsd tons CWE in 2027, slightly below the 2026 level. At the same time, domestic consumption could rise by 5% to 2.41 mln tons, while around 80% of the country’s beef production is traditionally sold on the domestic market.

Strong demand for young cattle is already supporting prices. In January 2024, calf prices were around 31% above those for finished steers, while by June 2026 the gap had widened to 57%. The industry expects strong global beef demand to continue encouraging producers to increase slaughter weights.

Tags: Beef cattle, Argentina