September 12, 2008

Brazilian beef exports are forecast to drop 11 percent in 2008 from the record 2.22 million tonnes exported in 2007 but should pick up by 2009, according to USDA.

In 2009, exports are expected to increase to 2.02 million tonnes cwt, up 2 percent  on 2008, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Brazil is expected to rebuild its herd, thus leading to growth of 1 percent in both 2008 and 2009.

Cow slaughter is expected to drop 14 percent this year and a steeper 20 percent next years.

Total production is expected to decrease 1 percent, to 9.2 million tonnes cwt in 2008.

Local producers are expected to focus on the domestic market, where rising incomes have been enabled consumers to absorb higher retail prices.