Brazil beef exports, prices surge on strong China demand
Domestic market gains as fed cattle, carcass prices climb
29 August 2025
1 minute read
By: Brazilian beef exports have risen steadily this year, with total shipments in the first seven months up 13.4% compared to the same period in 2024, according to a recent market report from Cepea. July set a new monthly record, and the daily average so far in August has also surpassed the pace seen in July.
Much of this growth stems from increased purchases by China, which bought more than 158,000 metric tonnes of Brazilian beef in July—a record volume. The country accounted for 51.1% of all Brazilian beef exports that month.
Prices paid by Chinese buyers have also climbed for four consecutive months. In July, the value paid by China in Brazilian reais was up 11% compared to March, while the overall average export price rose by 8%. In US dollar terms, the price paid by China increased by 15%, versus a 13% gain for the overall average.
Domestic market
In Brazil’s domestic cattle market, prices rose during the first half of August. Demand has remained firm, and more producers are willing to sell, improving liquidity. The CEPEA/ESALQ Index for fed cattle in São Paulo state closed at 308.30 reais ($56.80 US) on August 15, up 4.74% from July 31.
In the wholesale market of Greater São Paulo, beef carcass prices also gained 6% over the same period.
