Beef Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Fresh Beef, Processed Beef), By Cut Type (Chuck, Rib, Loin, Sirloin, Others), By Slaughter Method (Kosher, Halal, Others), By End-User (Household/Retail, Foodservice Industry, Others), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retail, Specialty Meat Stores, Others) and By Region(North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, LATAM) Forecasts, 2025-2033

Beef Market Size

The global beef market size was valued at USD 430.23 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach from USD 455.18 billion in 2025 to USD 714.61 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% over the forecast period (2025-2033).

Beef is meat from full-grown cattle about 2 years old. A live steer weighs about 1,000 pounds and yields about 450 pounds of edible meat. There are at least 50 breeds of beef cattle, but fewer than 10 make up most cattle produced. Some major breeds are Angus, Hereford, Charolais, and Brahman.

Beef is a complete, high-quality protein, which means it supplies all the essential amino acids or building blocks of protein the body needs to build, maintain, and repair body tissue. To get the same amount of protein found in a 3 oz. serving of lean beef at 150 calories, you would need to eat 236 calories of raw soy tofu cubes, 374 calories of black beans, or 670 calories of peanut butter.

The below table shows yearly per capita net beef availability across the 2019-2023 period.

Source: Annual Reports, Investor Presentations & Straits Research Analysis

Beef Market Trends

Rising demand for premium and organic beef

The global beef market is seeing a strong rise in demand for premium and organic meat as consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware. Many people, especially in developed regions like North America and Europe, are willing to pay extra for high-quality, grass-fed, and organic meat, which they view as healthier and more sustainable. Organic beef is generally considered better for health since it usually has fewer antibiotics and hormones.

To meet this growing demand, major beef producers are expanding their organic product lines. The trend is also boosted by the increased availability of information on food sourcing, leading consumers to choose meat that reflects their values around health and sustainability. For example, USDA data shows that organic beef commands a price premium of 50%, or an extra $3.32 per pound in 2022 prices, over conventional meat.

Beef Market Growth Factors

Growing population and increasing meat consumption

Global population growth, particularly in emerging markets such as China, India, and regions of Africa, plays a pivotal role in driving demand within the meat industry. As urbanization accelerates and middle-class populations expand, consumer preferences are increasingly leaning toward protein-rich diets, including higher beef consumption. This shift reflects a broader trend toward diversified and protein-centered diets among developing economies.

Moreover, rising disposable incomes have enabled more consumers to afford meat, which remains a premium product in many regions. Economic growth has both increased accessibility to meat and reshaped consumption patterns, making beef a more prominent part of everyday diets. These demographic and economic transformations are anticipated to fuel meat demand well into the next decade.

• For instance, Dirt-to-Dinner, the world’s largest beef producer, highlights the scale of the U.S. market, which generates roughly 11.5 million metric tons of beef annually—about 19% of global production. At the same time, the U.S. is the leading meat importer globally, accounting for 18% of international imports, followed closely by China, which imports 11%.

This dual role as both a top producer and leading importer underscores the robust and multifaceted demand within the U.S. market.

Expanding international trade and market access

The growth of beef exports has been significantly enhanced by trade liberalization and the reduction of tariffs, particularly from major producing countries such as Brazil, the U.S., and Australia. Free trade agreements and improved market access in regions like China and Japan have created new opportunities for meat exporters. Rising global demand for high-quality and premium cuts of beef, especially in Asia, is further driving increased cross-border trade.

This expansion in international trade enables beef producers to access larger markets, effectively balancing domestic supply with external demand. The removal of trade barriers not only encourages investment in meat production but also enhances overall market growth as more producers pivot to become export-oriented.

• For example, beef production in the EU remains relatively stable at around 600,000 tonnes per month, placing it third behind the U.S. and Brazil in global meat production.

Beef Market Restraining Factors

Environmental and sustainability concerns

The beef industry is facing intensified scrutiny due to its considerable environmental impact, particularly in terms of greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water usage. Beef production ranks among the most resource-intensive forms of agriculture, significantly contributing to global climate change and biodiversity loss. Consequently, environmental advocacy groups and governmental agencies are advocating for stricter regulations and enhanced sustainability measures.

These challenges not only raise operational costs for producers but also introduce potential reputational risks.

•  For example, projections indicate that meat consumption may decline by 2035 if the price of plant-based alternatives decreases in 2024—although this scenario seems unlikely at present. Likewise, researchers from the FAO suggest that a peak in meat consumption may only be achievable in the 2030s if governments prioritize sustainability initiatives.

Beef Market Opportunities

Adoption of advanced supply chain technologies

The global beef market is poised for significant growth through the adoption of advanced supply chain technologies. Digital innovations such as blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing the tracking and management of meat products, enhancing quality control and minimizing the risk of food fraud. These technologies facilitate real-time monitoring from farm to table, giving consumers transparency regarding the beef’s origin, safety, and sustainability practices.

For instance, blockchain technology can verify claims related to organic or grass-fed standards, thereby fostering consumer trust and confidence.

• In India, meat production reaches an impressive 6.3 million tons annually, positioning the country as the fifth-largest beef producer globally. Meat consumption was recorded at over 3.9 million tons in 2020. However, a critical opportunity lies in addressing the challenge of maintaining strict temperature control during storage and delivery, given meat’s short shelf life.

By leveraging advanced supply chain solutions, stakeholders can improve efficiency and safety, ultimately meeting consumer demands while minimizing waste.

Regional Insights

North America is a Dominant region with a 40.25% market share

The United States is recognized as the world’s largest producer and consumer of beef in North America, significantly influencing global supply and demand dynamics. Several key factors underpin North America's dominance in this market. First, the region features a robust cattle farming infrastructure, including advanced feedlots and sustainable farming practices that enhance production efficiency. This infrastructure supports high output levels while adhering to environmental standards.

Second, beef occupies a central role in the American diet, with consumers showing a strong preference for premium products such as steaks and burgers. This high demand fuels production and drives innovation in meat quality and variety. Moreover, trade agreements, notably the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), facilitate seamless trade and market access for beef products across North America, promoting growth and stability within the sector.

Central and South America has the Rapid growth in Brazil and Argentina

In Central and South America, Brazil and Argentina are witnessing rapid growth in beef production, benefiting from vast arable land and natural pastures ideal for cattle grazing. This geographical advantage allows these countries to produce meat at lower costs compared to many other regions, enhancing their competitiveness in the global market.

Favorable climatic conditions and extensive livestock systems further support large-scale beef production in these nations. In Brazil, significant investments in cattle genetics and sustainable farming techniques have markedly boosted productivity and efficiency. Moreover, the region is experiencing growing demand from international markets, particularly in Asia.

Country Insights

• China - China has emerged as a major importer of South American beef, driven by its expanding middle class and increasing meat consumption patterns. Such factors propel regional market growth.

• Brazil - Brazil holds the title of the largest beef exporter worldwide, with exports reaching 2.5 million metric tons in 2023. This represents approximately 25% of the global beef export market. The primary destination for Brazilian meat is China, which accounted for nearly 50% of Brazil's total beef exports in 2022. Brazil’s expansive cattle ranching operations and commitment to sustainable practices have bolstered its position as a key player in the international meat market.

• United States - The United States is the world’s largest beef producer, responsible for nearly 20% of global beef production. In 2023, U.S. beef production surpassed 12 million metric tons. Additionally, the U.S. is one of the top meat consumers, with the average American consuming about 57.2 pounds (26 kg) of beef annually. This high level of production and consumption is supported by advanced farming techniques and a robust domestic market.

• Argentina - Argentina exported around 750,000 metric tons of beef in 2023, with China being the primary destination for its exports, followed by Germany and Chile. Beef is integral to Argentine cuisine, with annual per capita consumption ranging from 45 to 50 kg, making Argentina one of the highest meat-consuming countries globally. The country’s rich culinary traditions and commitment to quality beef production enhance its reputation in the global market.

• Mexico - Mexico is a significant beef consumer and a growing exporter, producing approximately 2.2 million metric tons of beef each year. The United States is Mexico's largest export market, receiving over 80% of Mexican meat exports, thanks to favorable trade terms established under the USMCA. As the demand for meat continues to rise, Mexico's beef industry is poised for growth, leveraging its proximity to the U.S. market.

• Japan - Japan is a major beef importer, with imports reaching 680,000 metric tons in 2022. The country primarily sources its meat from the United States, Australia, and Canada. While Japan's domestic beef production is limited, it is renowned for its premium Wagyu beef, which is highly sought after globally due to its exceptional marbling and flavor. Japan's demand for high-quality meat presents opportunities for international exporters to tap into this lucrative market.

Segmentation Analysis

By product

Fresh beef currently dominates the global market and is expected to grow steadily in the coming years. This is largely due to increasing consumer awareness of healthy and minimally processed food. With trends shifting towards natural, whole-food diets, fresh meat appeals to health-conscious consumers seeking transparency in food sourcing.

Moreover, the rising demand for premium beef products, such as grass-fed or organic meat, further bolsters the fresh meat segment. Restaurants, especially high-end steakhouses and retail outlets, are also witnessing stronger demand for fresh beef due to its versatility in various culinary applications and its perceived freshness.

By cut type

The Loin segment is a leading cut in the global beef market due to its premium status, tenderness, and versatility in culinary applications. Cuts from the loin, such as the tenderloin and strip steak, are frequently used in fine dining and are sought after by consumers willing to pay higher prices for top-quality meat. As global disposable incomes rise, especially in developing regions, there is a growing demand for premium meat cuts.

Additionally, the trend towards indulgent dining experiences, along with the rising popularity of gourmet cooking at home, will continue to drive the demand for loin cuts. The appeal of these tender and flavorful cuts in high-end restaurants and upscale retail markets positions the loin segment for sustained growth.

By slaughter method

Halal is the dominant segment in the global market by slaughter method and is expected to continue growing due to several key factors. The rising Muslim population globally, projected to reach 2.2 billion by 2030, is driving consistent demand for Halal-certified meat products. In regions such as the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa, Halal meat is not only a religious requirement but also a standard for ethical meat production.

Moreover, Halal certification is also increasingly recognized for its rigorous slaughtering standards, ensuring humane treatment of animals and food safety. This perception, coupled with the rising demand for Halal-certified food products in non-Muslim countries, positions the Halal beef segment for sustained growth across global markets.

By end-user

The food service industry is currently the dominant segment in the global beef and is expected to see sustained growth in the coming years. A key factor driving this segment's expansion is the rising global trend of eating out, spurred by increasing urbanization and higher disposable incomes. As lifestyles become busier, consumers are dining out more frequently, supporting demand for meat products in restaurants, cafes, and fast-food outlets.

The food service industry is also benefiting from the rising demand for premium meat cuts and gourmet experiences, especially in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. Moreover, the proliferation of fast-food chains, casual dining, and premium steakhouses worldwide has contributed to consistent growth in this segment.

By distribution channel

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets are currently the dominant distribution channel in the global beef market and are expected to continue their growth. These large retail chains offer a broad range of meat products, from fresh and premium cuts to processed and packaged options, making them a one-stop shop for consumers. As urbanization continues and consumers increasingly seek convenient access to a wide variety of food products, these stores will remain a preferred shopping destination for meat.

Moreover, the trend of supermarkets offering in-store butchers and fresh meat counters enhances consumer trust and encourages the purchase of fresh meat, further boosting their market share.

Company Market Share

In the global beef market, companies are focusing on expanding their market share by increasing investments in sustainability, product innovation, and supply chain improvements to meet rising consumer demand. Leading players such as JBS, Tyson Foods, and Cargill are investing in advanced technologies like blockchain for improved traceability and transparency.

These firms are also expanding their product lines to include premium, organic, grass-fed meat, catering to health-conscious consumers. Regional producers in countries like Brazil and Australia are enhancing their production capacities and improving export strategies to capitalize on growing international demand, particularly in Asia.

Central Valley Meat: An Emerging Player

Central Valley Meat Co., established in 1993, is a prominent beef harvesting operation located in Hanford, California. The company processes over 1,500 beef cattle daily, providing a wide range of graded and non-graded boxed meat cuts, trimmings, and offal products to processors, food service, and retail customers. Central Valley Meat is committed to excellence and sustainability, ensuring high standards in animal welfare and food safety.

The company employs more than 900 people and has expanded its operations through strategic acquisitions, including the purchase of Harris Ranch Beef Company in 2019. Central Valley Meat's dedication to quality and innovation is evident in its state-of-the-art facilities and rigorous quality control measures.

Recent Developments

• August 2024- Central Valley Meat announced the completion of an acquisition agreement made in May for the Cargill Meat Solutions beef processing facility located on North Avenue, just west of Highway 41. This strategic acquisition aims to enhance Central Valley Meat's processing capabilities and increase its operational efficiency in the competitive meat market.

Analyst Opinion

As per our analyst, the global beef market is witnessing steady growth, fueled by rising demand from both developed and emerging economies. Increasing consumer interest in premium and organic meat, along with the growing populations and higher disposable incomes in countries like China and India, are pivotal factors driving this trend. However, the industry faces significant challenges due to environmental concerns associated with beef production, such as its contributions to climate change and deforestation.

In response, companies within the sector are adopting sustainable practices and enhancing transparency through technological advancements. This includes implementing environmentally friendly production methods and actively engaging consumers about their sourcing practices.

Moreover, as plant-based alternatives gain traction in the market, the beef industry is under increasing pressure to innovate and diversify its product offerings. By embracing these changes, the meat sector can position itself for sustainable growth while meeting the evolving preferences of consumers.