February 18, 2010

Paraguay beef exports up 85% in January

Chile, Russia, Vietnam and Israel were the main clients for Paraguayan beef and meat products during the month of January totalling US$54.8 million US dollars, up 85% over the same month a year ago.

According to the latest data from the Livestock Health and Quality Service (Senacsa), exports to Chile reached US$19.8 million; Russia, US$10.3 million; Vietnam, US$2.3 million and Israel, US$1.6 million.

Senacsa director Daniel Rojas said that the foot and mouth disease (FMD) immunisation campaign was evolving according to schedule.

"So far, 40% of the national herd has been vaccinated and registered, which is equivalent to 4.447.837 head of cattle", said Rojas.

Meanwhile, Paraguay's total herd is estimated in 12 million heads. The country is registered before the OIE office as free of FMD with vaccination.