Every week we share the reference values from Uruguay’s cattle market so that producers, feedlot operators, and investors have up-to-date information for decision-making. This report, covering week 29, includes slaughter cattle, replacement, and sheep prices, along with each category’s trend versus the previous week.
This week confirmed a second consecutive rise in several slaughter categories, with strong slaughter volumes and a marked preference for heavier cattle, which explains the relatively stronger performance of better-finished steers and heifers.
Export prices consolidated at US$ 6,000 per ton, an unprecedented level in the country’s history, underpinned by Brazil’s and Australia’s exit from their China quotas and continued firmness in the European market. The tight supply of pasture-finished cattle remains the main factor behind price strength.
| Category | Price (USD/kg) | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Steer | 5.64 | ▲ Up |
| Cow | 5.27 | ▲ Up |
| Heifer | 5.51 | ▬ Unchanged |
| Category | Price (USD/kg) | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Calf (male) | 4.21 | ▲ Up |
| Calf (female) | 3.96 | ▼ Down |
| Feeder cow | 2.34 | ▲ Up |
| Category | Price (USD/kg) | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Lamb | 6.20 | ▲ Up |
| Wethers | 5.24 | ▲ Up |
| Ewes | 5.12 | ▬ Unchanged |
The Uruguayan cattle market closes the week with signs of firmness across most categories.
Week 29 slaughter totaled 42,957 head of cattle, 3,754 fewer than the previous week. Year-to-date, cattle slaughter is down 14.2% versus the same period in 2025, and sheep slaughter is down 31.4%. This tighter supply largely explains the price strength, even as operators describe demand as cautious.
In the replacement market, live cattle exports held firm reference prices: up to US$ 4.20 per kilo for calves up to 180 kg, with most calf categories holding above US$ 4. Steers aged one to two years rose 11% over the week.
We will continue publishing this update week by week so you always have reliable information when buying, selling, or investing.
Do you have questions about how these values might affect your next transaction? Are you looking to buy, sell, appraise, or lease a farm?
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Related source: Asociación de Consignatarios de Ganado
