Prices for replacement cattle and cows are recording consistent increases in the main regions monitored by Cepea, surpassing the appreciation of the finished male. Stronger demand from breeders seeking to rebuild herds has supported both demand and calf prices.
In Mato Grosso do Sul, one of the country’s main producing states, the Nelore calf up to 12 months old averaged R$ 2,940 per head in November, a nominal increase of 14% compared with the same month in 2024, according to Cepea.
For cows, the onset of spring and the breeding season prompted many producers to retain females for reproduction, reducing the supply for slaughter. This lower availability also pushed up animal prices.
According to Cepea, in Mato Grosso do Sul, fat cow prices rose 2.2% between October and November, while the finished male increased 1.6% during the same period —reflecting the strengthening of the replacement market amid limited supply.
