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In 2024, Brazil reached an unprecedented milestone in livestock, setting records in production, export, and productivity in beef. The country not only stood out as a global supplier but also advanced in sustainability, animal health, and traceability, consolidating its position as a leader in the international animal protein market.
Livestock on the rise. Brazil has established itself as a global powerhouse in beef production and export in 2024.
According to the Beef Report 2025, published by Abiec, 1 in every 5 kilos of beef exported globally came from Brazilian territory.
The country shipped 2.89 million tons, reaching 157 markets and setting a new historical record.
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The most important thing is that China led the list of buyers, absorbing 46% of the total exported. Revenue was significant, reaching US$ 12.8 billion, a value 22% higher than in 2023.
Even with logistical challenges and trade barriers, Brazil increased its global participation based on animal health, traceability, and professionalization of the sector.
Livestock Boosts The Brazilian Economy
The beef chain generated R$ 987.36 billion in 2024, according to Athenagro.
This value represents 8.4% of the national Gross Domestic Product and indicates a real growth of 9.5% compared to the previous year.
Therefore, livestock is not only essential for agribusiness but also for the economy as a whole.
Additionally, beef accounted for almost 4% of all Brazilian exports and 8% of the total exported by the agricultural sector.
The activity involves a long and complex chain, directly impacting the labor market, trade, and the development of producing regions.
Production Grows With Less Area And More Efficiency
National production reached 11.8 million tons in 2024, another record for the sector. This growth did not occur due to an increase in area but rather due to increased productivity.
The average jumped from 2.8 to nearly 5 arrobas per hectare/year in the last 20 years, while the pasture area decreased by 11%.
The confinement of animals played a decisive role in this scenario. In 2024, 8.8 million cattle were confined, representing 19.2% of the slaughter in the country. Technology has been an ally for livestock producers to achieve these results.
Animal Health And Traceability Gain Emphasis
The recognition of Brazil as a foot-and-mouth disease-free country without vaccination, granted by the World Organization for Animal Health, further strengthened the image of Brazilian beef abroad.
As a result, the country began to access premium markets with stricter sanitary requirements.
Another advancement was the launch, in 2024, of a national system for the individual identification of cattle and buffaloes.
This tool improves traceability, ensures transparency, and increases the confidence of trading partners in Brazilian products.
Sustainability Is A Priority In The Sector
The federal government implemented actions to make livestock more sustainable. Programs like the ABC+ Plan and the PNCPD encourage practices that reduce the environmental impact without compromising productivity.
Among these practices are precision nutrition, integrated crop-livestock systems, and the use of advanced genetics.
As a result, the country has produced more beef with less pasture area and lower gas emissions.
Internal Consumption Remains Essential
Despite the emphasis on exports, about 70% of the beef produced in Brazil is consumed domestically.
In 2024, formal per capita consumption was 30.55 kg per year, with a predominance of meat inspected by federal, state, or municipal agencies.
This demonstrates that the domestic market remains strategic for the sector.
Domestic demand supports a large part of production, ensuring stability and balance for the entire production chain.
