The Paraguayan finished-cattle market begins the second half of the year with stable prices, holding firm despite speculation about possible declines. Reference prices remain at US$ 5 per kilogram of carcass for steers and heifers, and US$ 4.80 for cows, levels that have been sustained for several weeks.
This stability is driven by a supply of finished cattle that remains limited, not fully meeting the expectations of the meatpacking industry. Although export slaughterhouses have slightly extended their slaughter schedules to between 10 and 15 days, the availability of animals ready for slaughter has not increased significantly, even with the arrival of winter, which traditionally favors more cattle coming to market.
Speculation about price corrections is fueled by the regional scenario. In Brazil, a key reference market in Mercosur, the price of finished cattle is on a downward trend, approaching US$ 4 per kilogram of carcass. However, this external pressure has not yet been reflected in concrete operations in the Paraguayan market.
The production sector believes there are solid fundamentals to support current prices. The source report says producers consider international demand for Paraguayan beef strong enough to offset pressure from a possible increase in regional supply. The source report says producers and operators see no signs of a significant correction in the short term.
The source report says Paraguay again set a record for average beef export value in June, which it says supported prices for cattle destined for export.
With this perspective, the livestock market begins the second half of the year with favorable expectations. The sector considers that continued international demand and relatively tight supplies of finished cattle could help keep prices stable and support profitability in the export chain.