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 a greater movement of cattle to market.
Speculation about price corrections is fueled by the regional scenario. In Brazil, the main reference within the Mercosur (Southern Common Market) trade bloc, 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. International demand for Paraguayan beef remains robust, offsetting any potential pressure from greater regional supply. Producers and operators agree that there are no signs of a significant correction in the short term.
This outlook is reinforced by the strong performance of foreign trade. In June, Paraguay once again set a record for the average export value of beef, reflecting a sustained improvement in revenue per ton shipped and the growing appreciation of the product in key international markets. This trend strengthens the industry's payment capacity and supports the prices for cattle destined for export.
With this perspective, the livestock market begins the second half of the year with favorable expectations. As long as international demand continues to absorb Paraguayan supply and the availability of finished cattle remains relatively tight, the sector assesses that conditions exist to maintain price stability and the profitability of the export chain.