The Global Livestock Report

After four weeks in which the industry held firm at a purchase price of US$ 3.50 per kilo for standard steers — a level at which very few deals were closed due to producers' reluctance to accept that value — a significant upward correction has taken place in recent days.

Export steer prices recorded another upward adjustment, with an increase of around Ar$ 50 per kilo carcass weight. Crossbred steers of British breeds with better quality now range between Ar$ 5,150 and 5,300 per kilo, while steers with zebu crosses are priced between Ar$ 5,000 and 5,100.

In the first half of 2025, Argentina slaughtered 6.596 million head of cattle, up 0.5% from the same period in 2024. Cow slaughter dropped sharply, down 12% year-on-year to 1.223 million head. In contrast, steer slaughter rose 13% to nearly 551,000 head, while young steers increased by 1% to 2.754 million, and heifers rose 7% to 1.884 million head.

Argentina’s June cattle slaughter totaled 1.126 million head, virtually identical to May’s figure, according to data from INDEC. However, when adjusted for the 18 business days in June, the daily average reached nearly 62,500 head, 16.7% higher than the 53,600 head averaged across May’s 21 business days.

Although no one claims to have official information, there is growing speculation among various stakeholders in the beef supply chain that President Javier Milei may announce the full elimination of export taxes on beef during the upcoming Palermo Rural Expo, the country’s most important agricultural fair, which will take place from July 17 to 27.

The slaughter cattle market remains firm, but several operators consulted yesterday afternoon agreed that “some additional supply has emerged” since last week. At the same time, expectations are that starting next week, part of the demand will begin to focus on grainfed animals — either from the buyers' own feedlots or through prearranged agreements — which will moderate their interest in spot market animals.