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Marfrig and Minerva Compete for Meatpacking Plants in Uruguay Amid U.S. Trade Barriers, Antitrust Decision, and Strategic Market Impact
Marfrig and Minerva are engaged in an intense battle for beef packing plants in Uruguay. These units have gained strategic value because the tariffs imposed by the United States on Brazilian products have heightened the importance of assets outside Brazilian territory.
On Friday (29), Marfrig, based in São Paulo, announced that the sale agreement for three meatpacking plants to its rival was automatically terminated.
According to the company, Minerva failed to obtain antitrust approval within the two-year timeframe established in the contract.
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Minerva’s Challenge
In response, Minerva stated in a separate announcement that the “agreement remains in full force and effect.” The disagreement between the two companies indicates that the dispute is far from over.
The Uruguayan antitrust authorities blocked the transaction, citing the risk of Minerva concentrating excessive power in the country’s cattle market. Therefore, the company filed an appeal against the decision.
Strategic Importance
The Uruguayan plants have become more significant for both groups. Additionally, the pressure from trade barriers imposed by President Donald Trump on Brazilian exports increases the weight of the operation.
If the agreement finalized in 2023 were completed, Marfrig would have lower production capacity outside Brazil. This would increase its exposure to U.S. tariffs.
On the other hand, Minerva, which has operations in Paraguay and Argentina, would gain greater flexibility to face new costs.
Exports to the U.S.
Marfrig’s subsidiary, National Beef, is among the largest suppliers of beef in the United States. According to data from IHS Markit Customs, the company imports beef directly from Uruguay.
Minerva also ships significant volumes of Uruguayan beef to the North American market.
Reactions and Market
When contacted, the Uruguayan antitrust commission did not respond to requests for comments. Meanwhile, the market reacted.
Marfrig’s shares rose by as much as 6.1% on the São Paulo stock exchange. Minerva’s shares also gained 2%, but lost momentum and gave back the gains.
Information is from Bloomberg Línea.
O mercado uruguaio seria um trampolim pra carne brasileira entrar no mercado americano.