March 19, 2007

Brazil named main contributor to world beef output increase
 

Brazil was named as one of the main contributors to increasing the world's annual beef production to 87.3 million tonnes in the next 25 years, World Agricultural Forum executive Osler Desouzart said on March 15.

Currently, the world's annual beef output stands at some 67.5 million tonnes. The world's beef consumption is seen rising chiefly due to population growth.

Desouzart outlined Brazil's capacity to grow in the field, based on the availability of 90 million hectares for cattle pastures and its favourable climate. In addition, the country has 15 percent  of the world's potable water reserves. However, Desouzart pointed out several weak points that Brazil has to work on such as animal health which he said should be the country's primary objective.

He also said Brazil should also increase the quality of labour and fodder used.