Firming trend for cattle

Driven by strong packer demand — although with some price variability — cattle prices firmed again last week. One trader told WBR that some plants are offering anywhere from US$ 4.70 to US$ 4.80 per kg carcass for the same type of steer. Exceptional deals have been reported at US$/kg 4.85 for special southern steers, but “those are not the norm,” another source said.

For fat cows, special carcasses above 260 kg are reaching up to US$/kg 4.60, though most business takes place between US$ 4.40–4.50.

Heifers, meanwhile, showed slightly less momentum than in recent weeks due to slower demand from the domestic market, with prices around US$/kg 4.62.

Bookings are not uniform. Some plants are scheduling within the week and offering a small premium for Sunday loads; others are booking a week out, and some up to 10 days.

With near-spring conditions this autumn — bright skies, warm temperatures for the season, moist soils, and ideal conditions for pasture sowing — producers are still in a comfortable position as they await the first frosts.

Nonetheless, one operator noted that speculation over a possible further price rise is not a factor currently influencing supply. On the contrary, many producers are taking advantage of this favorable price environment to sell cattle, even if not fully finished, and are reserving pastures for other grazing categories.

On slaughter pace, one source said that while the pace remains “decent,” another weekly drop is expected due to ongoing union conflicts at the Canelones and Carrasco plants, both part of the Minerva group.