Beef exports to the United States halved in May

The 10% tariff implemented by Washington on beef imported from its main suppliers, along with widespread uncertainty caused by Trump’s tariff policy, drastically reduced Brazilian beef exports to the United States in May, while boosting sales to other destinations, mainly China.

According to data from the Foreign Trade Secretariat (Secex), Brazilian exporters shipped 21,291 tons of beef to the United States in May, less than half the 44,000 tons exported in April.

In contrast, exports to China continued to rise, reaching 111,031 tons—5,000 tons more than in April and 20,000 tons above the January low. The average export value to China surpassed US$/t 5,200 in May, the highest in two years.

Another destination that showed significant growth over the past two months was Mexico, with more than 8,000 tons shipped each month in April and May. This positions the country as the third-largest destination for Brazilian frozen beef in the first five months of the year.