Global beef quarterly Q4 2025

Beef production in key producing and consuming regions is expected to contract by 0.8% in 2025 compared to 2024 volumes, resulting in the first global beef contraction in five years. New Zealand is expected to experience the largest percentage drop in production, down 4.7% (34,000 metric tons), while the US, with its larger production base, is expected to see the largest drop in volume, falling almost 500,000 metric tons (down 4%). Canada and the EU27+UK are also expected to see a contraction of 3.9% and 3%, respectively (50,000 metric tons and 225,000 metric tons). Beef production in 2026 is expected to see the contraction in production continue with an estimated drop of 3.1%.

Northern Hemisphere cattle prices remained elevated in comparison to Southern Hemisphere prices. Southern Hemisphere cattle prices all edged higher through September and October – with the exception of Argentina – as southern cattle supplies are being drawn on to supply Northern Hemisphere markets.

In the feature article we look at Mexico’s cattle and beef sector, entering 2026 at a pivotal moment. After two consecutive years of herd contraction – driven by drought and strong export incentives – the supply situation is finally stabilizing. However, the adjustment remains uneven, influenced by disease-related (screwworm) border restrictions, shifting trade flows, and volatile domestic prices, margins and costs.