Brazil’s agricultural production has reached a historic high, strengthening its global leadership in meat production

According to data released Wednesday by the state-run Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), Brazil recorded its highest-ever production volume across various agricultural sectors in 2025, cementing its position as a global powerhouse in food production.

According to IBGE data, the country achieved unprecedented performance across the entire livestock production chain: 42.94 million head of cattle were slaughtered in 2025, an 8.2 percent increase over 2024 and the highest level on record.

Poultry slaughter also set a record, reaching 6.69 billion chickens, up 3.1 percent from the previous year, while hog slaughter reached 60.69 billion heads, an increase of 4.3 percent, the highest level on record.

Meanwhile, dairy production also posted strong results. Raw milk consumption for the year totaled 27.51 billion liters, up 8.5 percent year-on-year and marking a third consecutive year of growth.

Egg production reached 4.95 billion dozen, up 5.7 percent year-on-year and setting a new all-time high, maintaining a nearly three-decade growth trend.

Meanwhile, the leather industry recorded a record processing volume: 44.03 million cowhides were processed, up 9.8 percent year-on-year.

This progress comes amid the steady expansion of Brazilian agribusiness, driven by technological improvements, increased productivity, and strong external demand, particularly in Asia.

In particular, increased meat production has allowed Brazil to strengthen its leading position in this sector, remaining the largest beef exporter and one of the world’s main suppliers of animal protein.

The sector’s growth was also accompanied by greater integration of the production chain and increased efficiency, allowing for expanded supply without losing competitiveness in international markets.

However, experts warned that the development of agribusiness creates challenges, such as pressure on domestic prices, environmental requirements, and the need to align production expansion with sustainable development principles.

Tags: Brazil