PUBLISHER: Verified Market Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1731745
PUBLISHER: Verified Market Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1731745
The rising global population, particularly in emerging markets, is fueling the demand for protein-rich foods, including beef. Beef holds significant cultural importance in many regions, influencing consumption patterns and preferences. Rising incomes and urbanization are leading to increased consumption of meat, particularly in developing countries, surpassing USD 335.85 Billion valued in 2024 to reach a valuation of around USD 772.96 Billion by 2032.
In addition to this, modern farming techniques, including improved breeding practices and feed technologies, are enhancing beef production efficiency and quality. International trade and supply chain networks play a crucial role in shaping the global beef market, thus enabling the niche market grow at a CAGR of 3.15% from 2026 to 2032.
Global Beef Market: Definition/ Overview
Beef is a protein-rich food derived from cattle. It's a versatile ingredient used in a variety of culinary applications worldwide, ranging from traditional stews and roasts to contemporary gourmet dishes. Beef provides essential nutrients like protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet.
Beef is a staple in many cuisines, serving as a primary protein source. It is used in various forms, including steaks, roasts, ground beef, and processed meats like sausages and bacon. The versatility of beef allows for diverse cooking methods, such as grilling, broiling, frying, and slow cooking.
As consumer demand for high-quality, sustainable, and ethically sourced beef grows, the industry is adapting to meet these evolving needs. Advancements in breeding, feed technologies, and processing techniques are driving improvements in beef quality and production efficiency. In addition to this, the integration of technology, such as precision agriculture and blockchain, is enhancing traceability and transparency in the beef supply chain.
Increasing global protein consumption is driving substantial beef market growth, with the USDA reported a 3.8% rise in global beef consumption to reach 58.7 million metric tons in 2023. Rising disposable incomes in developing countries, particularly in Asia Pacific, are fueling demand for high-quality beef products, while changing dietary preferences towards protein-rich foods continue to support market expansion.
The growing popularity of convenience foods and ready-to-eat meals is boosting beef demand, as evidenced by the FDA's January 2024 report indicating a 15.2% increase in processed beef product sales. Tyson Foods' February 2024 launch of their new value-added beef product line, supported by a $500 million investment in processing facilities, demonstrates industry response to this trend. The rise of e-commerce and food delivery services has further accelerated the demand for convenient beef products, particularly among urban consumers seeking quick meal solutions.
Premiumization and sustainable beef production are emerging as significant market drivers, with the USDA's Organic Survey 2023 showing a 22% increase in organic beef sales. The trend towards premium cuts, grass-fed beef, and certified organic products has created new market opportunities, while traceability and transparency in the supply chain have become crucial factors influencing consumer purchasing decisions.
Environmental sustainability concerns pose significant challenges to the beef industry, with the EPA's 2024 Agriculture Emissions Report indicating that cattle operations account for 37% of total agricultural methane emissions in the US. Climate change impacts on feed production and grazing lands, coupled with increasing pressure from environmental regulations and consumer awareness about carbon footprint, are forcing producers to adapt their operations while managing rising production costs.
Disease outbreaks and biosecurity measures continue to disrupt the global beef supply chain, as evidenced by the USDA's January 2024 report documenting a 12% increase in cattle diseases affecting major producing regions. The implementation of stringent safety protocols and increased testing requirements has led to higher operational costs and reduced processing efficiency, while international trade restrictions due to disease outbreaks have created market volatility.
Rising production costs and market volatility present ongoing challenges, with the World Bank's Agricultural Price Index showing feed costs increased by 28% in Q4 2023. Labor shortages in processing facilities, increased transportation costs, and fluctuating consumer demand patterns have created additional pressure on profit margins, while competition from alternative proteins continues to grow in key markets.
The loin cut segment is dominating the global beefs market, driven by its premium positioning and high consumer preference, with the USDA reported that loin cuts commanded a 32% premium over other beef cuts in 2023, with average retail prices reaching $9.85 per pound. Rising disposable incomes and growing demand for high-quality protein sources have maintained strong market performance, while the versatility of loin cuts in both foodservice and retail sectors continues to drive growth.
In addition to this, the segment's leadership is strengthened by evolving consumer preferences for premium dining experiences. The superior tenderness and marbling characteristics of loin cuts, particularly in certified programs like USDA Prime and Choice grades, maintain their position as the preferred choice for upscale dining establishments and quality-conscious consumers.
The halal beef segment is projected to maintain its dominance in the global beefs market during the forecast period, driven by the expanding Muslim population and increasing awareness of Halal certification standards. Rising disposable incomes in key Muslim-majority markets, coupled with stringent Halal certification processes, have strengthened consumer trust and market penetration, while modern retail chains are increasingly dedicating space to Halal-certified beef products.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service reported that Halal beef exports to OIC countries increased by 34% in Q4 2023, highlighting the segment's robust growth. The segmental growth is also supported by the rising adoption of Halal beef in non-Muslim majority countries, particularly in premium retail channels and food service sectors, while digital traceability systems are enhancing transparency and consumer confidence in Halal certification.
The Asia Pacific region is poised to maintain its dominance in the global beefs market during the forecast period, driven by China's massive consumption, with the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture reported beef imports reaching 3.45 million tonnes in 2023, a 32% increase from the previous year. The region's rising disposable income and westernization of dietary preferences, particularly in emerging economies like Vietnam and Indonesia, have significantly boosted beef consumption, while urbanization and the expansion of modern retail channels continue to facilitate market growth.
In addition to this, the APAC region's robust cold chain infrastructure development, coupled with strategic trade agreements like the RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership), has strengthened regional beef trade and distribution networks, while growing concerns about food safety and quality assurance have led to increased preference for branded and traceable beef products.
The North American beef market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing consumer preference for protein-rich diets and premium meat cuts, with the USDA reported that U.S. beef production reached 27.54 billion pounds in 2023, a 3.2% increase from the previous year. The demand for high-quality beef is particularly strong in the food service sector as post-pandemic restaurant recovery continues, while the rising popularity of specialized beef products like grass-fed and organic varieties is creating new market opportunities.
The region's expansion is further bolstered by the technological advancements in meat processing and sustainable farming practices, with Statistics Canada reported a 15% increase in sustainable beef certification programs in 2023. The growth is further supported by favorable trade agreements and increasing export opportunities to Asian markets, particularly after JBS USA's January 2024 announcement of securing a $2.1 billion export deal with major Asian retailers for premium beef products.
The global beef market is a dynamic and competitive landscape, with a mix of established players and emerging challengers vying for market share. These players are actively working to strengthen their presence by implementing strategic plans such as collaborations, mergers, acquisitions, and political support. The organizations are dedicated to continuously improving their product line to meet the needs of a wide range of customers in different regions.
Some of the key players operating in the global beef market include:
Tyson Foods, Inc.
Danish Crown
Cargill Incorporated
Marfrig Global Foods S.A.
NH Foods Ltd.
Minerva Foods
St. Helen's Meat Packers
Hormel Foods Corporation
JBS USA
National Beef Packing Company, LLC
Vion Food Group
Australian Agricultural Company Limited
In February 2022, JBS showcased its premium beef brand, Friboi, at Gulfood 2022, a leading global food and beverage trade show in Dubai. The company highlighted its exclusive Black Friboi range, a selection of the finest halal beef sourced from the top 1% of Black Angus cattle in the United States.
In July 2021, Aleph Farms, an Israeli cultured meat company, secured a significant investment of USD 105 million in a Series B funding round. This investment, totaling USD 119.4 million, will be utilized to scale up manufacturing operations, expand international reach, and diversify product offerings and technological capabilities.