Argentina’s Exports Remain In Short Supply
ARGENTINA - Despite rising four per cent month-on-month in August to 14,795 tonnes swt Argentinean beef exports continue to track lower during the eight months to August, down 51 per cent to 116,474 tonnes swt compared with the same period in 2009.
30 September 2010
1 minute read
The drop in exports is a result of the shortage of cattle, following years of liquidation as a result of the government’s intervention since 2005, and the severe drought during 2008-09, reports Meat and Livestock Australia.
Although the government continues to control exports, soaring domestic beef prices have encouraged the few processors still operating to divert beef into the domestic market as a result of the higher returns compared with previous years.
Russia has continued to be Argentina’s main export market this year, despite the exports to this market falling 65 per cent to 28,455 tonnes swt and accounting for only 24 per cent of total shipments from Argentina compared with 34 per cent during the first eight months of 2009.
Israel has been Argentina’s second largest market this year, accounting for 15 per cent of total volumes shipped. Other major markets include Germany (14 per cent), Chile (nine per cent) and Venezuela (7 per cent).
TheCattleSite News Desk
