Main sales markets of Ukrainian beef and cattle

In July 2024, Ukraine recorded a significant increase in the volume of cattle and beef exports, which was caused by increased demand in foreign markets, in particular during the barbecue season. This was reported by the press service of the Association of Milk Producers (AVM).

According to the data of the State Statistics Service of Ukraine (SSU), in July 2024, the country exported 1.74 thousand tons of live weight cattle, which is 25% more compared to June of this year. Revenue from these shipments totaled $3.18 million, up 17% from the previous month.

All deliveries of cattle in July were made to Lebanon. During January-July 2024, Ukraine exported 6.81 thousand tons of cattle, which is 83% less than last year. Revenue for the period was $121.86 million, down 60% from the same period in 2023.

As for frozen beef, 1.71 thousand tons were exported in July, which is 48% more compared to June 2024. Cash proceeds from beef exports totaled $6.92 million, up 50% from June 2024.

The main markets for Ukrainian frozen beef were Uzbekistan, where about 34% of meat was shipped, Georgia (31%) and Kazakhstan (26%). During January-July 2024, Ukraine exported 9.34 thousand tons of frozen beef worth 38.7 million US dollars, which is 31% less in physical volume and 26% less in monetary terms compared to the same period in 2023.

In addition, in July 2024, Ukraine imported 9.5 tons of cattle by live weight. Chilled beef imports increased to 12.5 tonnes (+38%) and frozen beef imports increased to 200 tonnes (+30%) compared to June 2024. Compared to July 2023, imports of chilled beef increased by 48% and frozen red meat by 27%. The main suppliers of red meat for Ukraine are the EU countries, the USA and Argentina.

In July 2024, the balance of foreign trade in cattle and beef was positive and amounted to 8.72 million US dollars. The AVM assumes that the increase in red meat exports in July is probably related to the increase in demand on foreign markets during the barbecue season.