The cattle market remained largely unchanged during the week despite a slight increase in supply. According to operators consulted by World Beef Report (WBR), one processor attempted to lower its bids by about US$ 0.05/kg, although the rest of the industry maintained purchase prices at virtually the same levels as the previous week.
Market references remain around US$ 5.00/kg for standard males, with premiums reaching up to US$ 5.15/kg for grass-fed cattle and US$ 5.25/kg for feedlot-finished animals. Cow prices continue to range between US$ 4.75 and 4.85/kg.
Sources said that although supply increased slightly, the market still lacks normal fluidity due to cold weather and poor road conditions in some cattle-producing areas.
Regarding processing activity, June slaughter is expected to close at a solid level. However, Frigorífico Concepción will post a significantly lower volume than usual due to the company's ongoing financial difficulties.
