Feedlot cattle numbers projected to rise 7% in 2025

Brazil could feedlot 8.53 million head of cattle in 2025, a 7.1% increase from the previous year, when 7.96 million cattle were confined, according to data from the 2025 Feedlot Tour, a study conducted by DSM-Firmenich, a global company specialized in mineral and vitamin supplements for intensive livestock production.

“We believe the future of beef cattle production depends on decisions based on reliable and transparent data. The 2025 census edition reinforces the progress of the intensive system and Brazil’s global leadership, while highlighting challenges that can be tackled through technology, management and long-term vision,” said Tiago Acedo, Latin America marketing manager at DSM-Firmenich.

Among the states with the highest volume of confined animals are Mato Grosso, with 2.1 million head (+23.5% vs. 2024); São Paulo, with 1.34 million (+3.8%); Goiás, with 1.1 million (-1.5%); Mato Grosso do Sul, with 957 thousand (+6.7%); and Minas Gerais, with 740 thousand (-7.2%). Together, these five states account for over half of the national total.

Source: Forbes Brasil