Frigorífico Clay expands its horizons and begins cattle slaughtering

Frigorífico Clay, located near San Jacinto in the department of Canelones, is recognized as Uruguay’s leading horsemeat processing plant. However, in recent weeks the company has taken a new step in its history: it began processing beef, adding a new line of activity that complements its traditional operation.

During the Anuga fair in Cologne, WBR spoke with Yon Harinordoquy, head of the company, who highlighted the importance of the event and the challenges facing the horsemeat sector. “The Anuga fair is very important for us because the horsemeat industry has a strong presence in Europe, both for human and pet food consumption. We have many clients throughout the region and very high demand, although the main problem today is the lack of raw material,” he explained.

That shortage is partly due to European traceability requirements. “We are working together with the Ministry of Livestock and the Animal Welfare Institute on a project to implement microchips for the individual identification of horses. This will ensure that the animals are free of prohibited substances, which is essential to maintain access to European markets,” Harinordoquy said. The system, he added, will be co-financed by the industry and producers, with financial support during its initial rollout.

Currently, Clay accounts for 65% of Uruguay’s horsemeat exports, with sales to Europe, Japan, China, Kazakhstan, Russia, and New Zealand. “Global demand is very strong, but prices have risen because production has fallen. There are more horses in Uruguay, but many cannot be processed because they do not meet the minimum 180-day residency required by European regulations,” he explained.

At the same time, the company has started operations in the beef sector. “My father made significant investments to diversify production. Two weeks ago, we began slaughtering cattle for the domestic market and on a custom-processing basis, with the goal of obtaining export approvals during the first quarter of 2026,” the businessman revealed.

The plant currently has a capacity of 600 animals per day, both horses and cattle, and the medium-term goal is to increase to 800 or even 1,000 head per day in the case of cattle, while maintaining an average of 1,000 horses per week.

“We want to grow in both lines, but always with the same philosophy: commitment to traceability, quality, and compliance with international sanitary standards. Uruguay has a great opportunity in these niche markets,” Harinordoquy concluded.