Paraguayan beef industry regains EU market

By M. Yolanda Pereira, Berkemeyer Attorneys & Counselors

Last March the European Community granted Paraguay access to export beef to the EU with exports starting almost immediately. The approval includes a 1000-ton quota of premium cuts, the ‘Hilton’ quota, something much prized by the local industry as it is perceived as a benchmark of the quality of Paraguayan beef.

Another highlight in the industry was the export of live pedigree cattle to Ecuador. The ‘flying cows’ attracted a lot of attention and the operation was greeted as a yet another mark of recognition of the high quality of Paraguayan cattle.

Paraguayan beef exports have regained markets worldwide with exports to Russia, Chile, Brazil, Israel, Hong Kong and other countries after a critical period following a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. Smaller but growing pork and poultry exports have found a market in various countries.

Next July the Expo 2015 which is the main trade show in the country – and one which is dominated by the beef industry – can be expected to bring to market top quality cattle. The sector has seen strong investment in the purchase of ranch lands and in the meatpacking industry.

Even the animal health agency has cause for celebration: it has been distinguished by the OIE by electing the head of the Paraguayan agency – Dr. Hugo Idoyaga – as a member of its world council.