BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – Argentina’s cattle sector is producing heavier animals as favorable corn economics and strong export demand encourage longer feeding periods, according to USDA Foreign Agricultural Service staff in Buenos Aires.
Beef production is forecast at 3.14 million metric tons carcass-weight equivalent in 2027, up 3% from 2026, even as cattle slaughter rises only slightly to 12.8 million head.
High feeder-cattle prices and relatively low feed costs are encouraging producers to retain cattle longer and add weight. In June, it took only 58 kilograms of finished steer value to buy one metric ton of corn, compared with a 2016-2025 average of 102 kilograms.
Feedlot occupancy reached 76% in July, six percentage points above a year earlier. Export-oriented meatpackers are also seeking heavier, better-marbled cattle, reinforcing demand for longer backgrounding and finishing cycles.
The report expects heavier slaughter weights to remain a key driver of beef output as global demand stays strong and Argentina competes for higher-value export markets.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Favorable feed economics are helping Argentina add more beef per animal while strengthening its export competitiveness.