World Meat Market Outlook: April 2025

World freight prices averaged $2,196.90 per 40-foot container in Mar ’25, down 29.79% month-on-month (MoM) and 24.70% year-on-year (YoY). The fall was mainly due to the seasonal decline in demand following the 2025 Lunar New Year (LNY) and the cessation of front-loading activities. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) MEAT Price Index averaged 118.01 points in Mar ’25, up 0.85% MoM, led by rising prices of pig, ovine and bovine meat .

Beef:

United States (US) beef exports could face pressure from recent tariff increases and retaliatory measures in April 25, which could push EXPORT prices lower, although limited supplies could keep them relatively high. Prices in Brazil are expected to remain stable on the back of strong global demand, despite setbacks in CHINA and the US. Australian beef remains competitive, supported by robust demand and an advantageous position compared to Brazil, which now faces a 36.5% US tariff. In the European Union ( EU ), ongoing supply constraints due to declining cattle herds and disease outbreaks are likely to keep prices high.

Bird:

US poultry export prices are expected to remain strong in April 2025, supported by balanced supply and demand. Brazilian chicken prices are likely to remain relatively stable, with strong international demand and trade disruptions from US tariffs providing short-term support despite ample supply. In the EU, poultry prices are likely to rise further, driven by strong domestic demand, the price advantage of chicken over other meats and increased consumption ahead of the Easter holidays.

Pork:

Despite strong global demand, U.S. pork export prices could decline due to higher tariffs in key markets such as CANADA and China . In contrast, prices in Brazil are expected to remain high in April 25, supported by robust demand and expanding exports. EU prices could also rise slightly, helped by the resumption of imports from Germany by the United Kingdom.

 Mutton:

Lamb prices in New Zealand are expected to remain stable in the coming months, supported by strong global demand and tight supplies. In Australia, strong Easter-related demand is likely to support a modest increase in export prices in April-25.