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Official data from China's General Administration of Customs show that beef imports during June again exceeded the projected average monthly quota. The figure confirms the sustained recovery of Chinese demand and its impact on international prices.
China is the world's largest beef importer and its volumes have a direct impact on global prices. After a 2024 with significant adjustments, demand began to show signs of gradual recovery during 2025.
The first half of 2026 confirms that trend with figures consistently above expectations.
According to official information, Chinese beef imports grew in June, driven by the recomposition of internal consumption and by the decline in international prices. Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay led the shipments, while Australia maintained its relative share.
The accumulated first half stands several percentage points above the same period of 2025.
Sustained Chinese demand is a positive signal for South American exporters, which had been affected by the drop in international prices. For producers, the scenario opens room to recompose margins and plan shipments of higher value-added products.
At the local level, exporting countries could see pressure on internal meat prices moderate.
