Uruguay beef exports down six percent in 2008-09

The EU was Uruguay's main export market during 2008-09, accounting for 25 percent of total shipments, as the South American country was able to benefit from the partial ban the EU had imposed on Brazil.

Russia was the second largest market, accounting for 23 percent of total shipments. However, volumes were down 32 percent on-year due to the slump in demand caused by the financial crisis. Average export prices to Russia also fell seven percent to US$2,875 per tonne.

Exports to the US continue to fall, declining 41 percent in 2008-09 to 28,493 tonnes swt, as shipments was sent to more price attractive markets. End users were reluctant to buy Uruguayan beef as a result of E. coli control recall procedure risks, which are now partially resolved. Average FOB prices to the US were up 28 percent in 2008-09 to US$3,890 per tonne.