Brazil beef exports to increase 10% in 2010

Brazilian beef export volumes are forecast to increase 10% in 2010 to around one million tonnes swt, with a 15% lift in revenue, according to the Brazilian Beef Exporters Association (ABIEC).

In February, exports increased 13% to 74,310 tonnes swt on-year, with an 11% rise on January volumes. Most noticeably, average export prices were up 27% on-year.

According to ABIEC, low inventories in importing countries and decreasing supplies from major beef producers such as Argentina, will contribute to higher export prices and volumes during the year.

In addition, ABIEC has highlighted the growing Iran market, the opening of China, and the possible easing of farm certification approval for the European market.