After reaching historically high levels in recent weeks, Paraguay’s cattle market appears to have entered a more stable phase. Market sources told WBR that the price for slaughter steers, which traded above US$/kg 5.00 last week, is now showing references closer to that level rather than moving higher. “I see it closer to US$/kg 5.00 than US$/kg 5.05,” one market operator said.
The source noted, however, that some deals are still being concluded above that level, particularly when customary bonuses and premiums are taken into account. Cow prices remain around US$/kg 4.80, broadly unchanged from the previous week.
According to the source, one factor helping support the market in recent days has been concern over a cold front expected to move into the region this week.
“There is a lot of concern about the frosts forecast for Wednesday and Thursday,” he said. As a result, some processors have accelerated purchases and slaughter schedules have extended somewhat compared to recent weeks.
