November 18, 2009

Argentina remains major beef supplier to Russia

Argentina is still a major beef supplier to Russia despite the effects of the recession and the downturn in the Argentine agricultural industry.

During the first half of 2009, Argentina exported over 54,300 tonnes of beef to Russia, second after Brazil.

In 2008, Argentina exported 65,800 tonnes of beef to Russia, making the country only fifth in terms of beef export volumes to Russia.

US experts are surprised by this year's performances, due to the downturn in Argentina's agriculture industry.

Official US estimates said that total Argentine beef exports next year will not exceed 390,000 tonnes, which is 30-percent lower than in 2009.

Argentina is expected to export 560,000 tonnes of beef this year. The lower 2010 export projections are due to low returns and the severe drought, which has depleted cattle number in Argentina.