7 May 2025

1 minute read

By: Global Ag Media

South America

The supply of beef cattle for slaughter remained tight through late April, limiting activity in the market despite steady demand, according to a recent market report from Cepea. 

Industry players reported low liquidity, with many meatpackers stepping back from closing trades and pushing prices down at month’s end.

Wholesale beef markets reflected a mixed picture. While overall prices fell slightly in late April, the monthly average showed gains across several cuts. Forequarter prices rose 6.9%, thin flank jumped 7.3%, and hindquarter values edged up 0.9%. Overall, beef prices increased by 3.6% over the month.

Market analysts attribute the restrained supply to limited cattle availability, which continues to constrain slaughter rates and influence pricing trends.