Brazilian beef exports are expected to close 2020 with a new record in volume and sales. According to the Brazilian Brazilian Beef Exporters Association (Abiec), the forecast of volumes shipped are expected to reach 2.02 million tons, an increase 8.8% of in comparison to 2019. Revenues should reach US$8.53 billion, 11.8% more than last year’s. “The data is within the estimates drawn last year and demonstrate the quality of Brazilian meat and the confidence of international markets in our product,” assesses Antonio Jorge Camardelli, president of Abiec.
From January to November 2020, accumulated sales registered a volume of 1.84 million tons, an increase of 9% compared to the same period in 2019. Turnover grew 13.9%, reaching a total of US$7.76 billion. In November, exports totalled 196,000 tons, a 9.7% increase in volume over the same month in 2019. Analysing the turnover, the monthly growth was of 0.4%, ending with US$ 844.3 million.
MAIN DESTINATIONS
The positive results were mainly driven by the growth in Chinese demand, which closed 2020 as the main destination for Brazilian meat, accounting for 42.3% of total exports. From January to November, exports to China totalled almost 780,000 tons, an 88% increase over the same period in 2019. The growth in revenue was of 65.8%, reaching a total of US$ 3.62 billion.
OUTLOOK FOR 2021
Analysing the positive results recorded in 2020, the entity’s estimates seem somewhat conservative for 2021, mainly due to the uncertainties arising from the Covid-19 pandemic. Once more, it is also important to highlight the drop in exports to the European block, as well as its impact on the marketing of noble cuts. Thus, the forecast is that export volumes will grow by around 6%, reaching 2.14 million tonnes. In relation to turnover, the projection is of a 3% growth, with revenues of US$ 8.78 billion.
SUMMARY OF BEEF EXPORTS IN 2020 (ESTIMATE)
– TURNOVER: US$ 8.533 billion
– TOTAL TONNES: 2.02 million
– EXPORTS: 155 COUNTRIES
– MAIN IMPORTERS: CHINA, HONG KONG AND AEGYPT
