The international beef market experienced a period of expansion in the first four months of 2026, with growth in major exporting countries and a recovery in average prices. However, Paraguay continued to buck the trend observed both within Mercosur and among other major global suppliers.
According to data from the entity Faxcarne, Mercosur exported 1.37 million tons (shipment weight) between January and April, up 8% from the same period in 2025. Globally, exports grew 4.8%, totaling 2.13 million tons.
Within the bloc, Brazil was the main driver, with 953,607 tons shipped and an increase of 15%. Argentina also posted positive numbers: 219,115 tons, up 11%.
In contrast, Paraguay shipped 87,899 tons of beef in the period, a 25% drop from the 116,997 tons in the previous year. As a result, the country had the largest relative contraction among Mercosur members. Uruguay also declined, but more moderately: 110,323 tons, down 14%.
Despite the reduction in volume, the average price per ton rose 17%, from US$ 5,630 to US$ 6,579. Still, Paraguay's performance lagged behind the regional price recovery. Argentina led the price recovery in the bloc, with a 35% increase and an average of US$ 6,644 per ton. Uruguay reached US$ 7,634 (up 19%), and Brazil, US$ 5,826 (up 17%).
Outside Mercosur, Australia increased its exports by 13%, to 506,143 tons, with an average price of US$ 8,242. The United States, which has expanded imports to curb inflation, was one of the few major origins to record a drop in volume: 19% less, but with the highest average price among major suppliers, at US$ 10,213 per ton.
The scenario confirms a heated international market with firm prices, but Paraguay faces a reality distinct from its regional competitors, with smaller volumes available for export and a reduced share in global beef trade.