Discover how Uruguay’s top-quality beef meets EU deforestation and sustainability standards with full traceability!

In a world where global markets demand high quality, sustainable products, Uruguay stands out for its top-notch beef that meets the strict criteria set by countries like China, Japan, Korea, the US, and Canada. Conrado Ferber, the head of the Uruguayan National Meats Institute, INAC, shared valuable insights into Uruguay’s thriving beef industry.

Here are some key points to consider:

1. Uruguayan beef consumption:
   • Uruguans consume an average of 95 kilos of protein per person, with 46 kilos of beef, surpassing the levels from 1918.
   • Despite high domestic consumption, Uruguay continues to export its premium certified beef to global markets while experiencing falling domestic prices.
2. Market access:
   • Uruguay faces tariffs of 12% in China, 38% in Japan, and 20% in Korea for its beef exports.
   • The country imports beef from Brazil and Paraguay to meet local demand, but the quality of Uruguayan beef surpasses that of its neighbors.
3. Future opportunities:
   • Uruguay is in talks to join the Trans Pacific trade agreement with Costa Rica, promising more market opportunities for its high-quality beef.
   • The country exports premium cuts of mutton and lamb while promoting domestic consumption through cooking programs.
4. Sustainable practices:
   • Uruguay showcased its sustainable cattle breeding at a regional conference sponsored by the FAO, emphasizing natural pasture-fed cattle with minimal carbon emissions.
   • FAO recognized Uruguay’s efforts in reducing the carbon footprint of cattle breeding, attributing only 12% of global emissions to this practice.
5. Traceability and sustainability:
   • Uruguay signed the EU demand at the International Conference on Food Safety and Hygiene in Paris, assuring that its beef production is traceable and sustainable.
   • Despite its rolling pastures, Uruguay has strict regulations dating back half a century to protect natural forests and ensure sustainable land use practices.

Uruguay’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and traceability in its beef production sets a remarkable example for the global market. By adhering to strict standards and implementing sustainable practices, Uruguay continues to shine as a top exporter in the competitive beef industry. Let’s acknowledge and support countries like Uruguay that lead by example in meeting stringent global demands for high-quality products.