European beef production will fall again in 2026, with imports continuing at record levels
The contraction in cattle herds, calf production, and slaughter is expected to continue in 2026, although at a slower pace than the previous year.
The report forecasts that cattle slaughter will fall by 300,000 head to 21.35 million animals. Production is projected to decrease to 6.35 million tons, compared to 6.41 million tons in 2025.
Last year, beef imports jumped 17% compared to 2024, reaching 460,000 tons, with strong growth in purchases from Mercosur.
Import volumes are projected to reach 465,000 tons in 2026. The report highlighted a 37.5% jump in imports of lower-value frozen beef and a 9.9% increase in imports of higher-priced fresh cuts in 2025.
Experts anticipate a slight moderation in consumption, from 6.275 million to 6.24 million tons.
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