Argentina beef sector eyes growth boost from EU-Mercosur deal and rising global demand

Trade deals and rising demand offer opportunity, but efficiency, disease control and production shifts remain key challenges for growth

Meat, particularly beef, is very much at the centre of Expoagro, South America’s largest agricultural show, with many stands hosting their own parrilla — a traditional Argentine barbecue.

Argentina’s livestock sectors could be on the brink of a major growth phase and well-positioned to capitalise on new trade deals, including the EU-Mercosur deal, if production challenges can be managed.

That was the key message from meat industry leaders speaking at Expoagro, South America’s largest agricultural show, who say that Argentine beef industry productivity gains have significant potential to come from heavier slaughter weights and intensification rather than simply increasing cattle numbers.