Global Beef Trade Nears 13M Tonnes Amid Market Expansion Asia, South America

The global beef industry is experiencing significant growth and transformation driven by rising demand, particularly in Asia, and export expansions from South American countries such as Brazil, which has become a leading exporter fueled by China's market demand. The Australian beef industry reported substantial sustainability achievements, including a 70.1% reduction in net CO2 emissions since 2005 and improved animal welfare, while exports to the United States increased by over 30%. Canada uses a beef import levy to balance contributions to marketing and promotion efforts between domestic producers and importers, strengthening consumer demand. Meanwhile, the U.S. cattle industry has expressed opposition to President Donald Trump's plan to quadruple beef imports from Argentina, highlighting ongoing trade tensions. Challenges remain globally, including geopolitical volatility affecting trade flows, workforce shortages, and the need for credible sustainability metrics, with continued growth expected in global beef trade driven by Asian consumption and South American production improvements.