Paraguay Jan-Apr meat exports surge 47%

Meat sales in Paraguay increased 47% in value during the first four months of 2010 compared to the same period a year ago, totalling US$295 million, according to the Food Quality and Animal Health Service, Senacasa.

The meat export tonnage jumped from 78,800 tonnes to 97,300 tonnes, of which 53,450 tonnes were beef.

Even when in the four first months of 2009, the volume of beef exported by Paraguay was slightly higher, 54,253 tonnes, the value soared 23.7% from US$162 million to US$201 million in 2010, and with an average beef tonne price of US$3,760.

If the market remains as bullish as now Paraguay believes it could reach a record in meat sales overseas, surpassing the US$600 million of 2008. Last year income from meat exports actually dropped 20%. Meats are rapidly becoming the second export item of Paraguay behind soy which annually generates US$1.2 billion.

According to reports, the government and private sector delegation will be participating in the 78th General Session of the World Assembly of OIE Delegates in Paris at the end of the month, with the purpose of trying to increase the country's quota of Hilton beef cuts. Currently, the Paraguayan quota is 1,000 tonnes.

According to officials, the country can supply 2,000-3,000 tons of Hilton cuts annually and in a couple of years 3,000-5,000 tonnes. The Hilton Quota beef which is sold directly to EU top hotels and meat boutiques has a current value of over US$7,000 per tonne.