In March, Ukraine increased exports of cattle and beef due to increased demand for red meat in the world on the eve of Easter and with the start of the barbecue season.
This is reported by the Association of Milk Producers, Ukrinform reports.
According to preliminary data from the State Statistics Service, in March 2025, Ukraine exported about 2,500 tons of cattle in live weight, which is 91% more than in February and 70% more than in March 2024. Cash proceeds from exported animals amounted to USD 4.97 million, which is 76% more than in February 2025 and 70% more than in March last year.
In March, Ukraine supplied cattle only to Lebanon. In January-March 2025, Ukraine exported 5,210 tons of cattle in live weight (+107%) for the amount of USD 10.52 million (+139%).
In March 2025, Ukrainian exporters supplied 21 tons of fresh or chilled beef to foreign markets, which is almost 20 tons more than in February this year. However, the natural volume of red meat exports decreased by 92% compared to March 2024. Export revenue for the delivered goods amounted to 137,000 dollars, which is 129,000 dollars more than in February 2025. Export revenue decreased by 92% compared to March 2024.
In March, Ukraine supplied fresh and chilled beef mainly to Azerbaijan, Moldova, and the Marshall Islands. In January-March 2025, Ukraine shipped 43 tons of chilled beef to foreign markets (-86%) for the amount of USD 247,000 (-87%).
The natural volume of frozen beef exports from Ukraine in March 2025 amounted to 1,510 tons, which is 14% more than in February this year and 13% more than in March last year. Cash revenue for the delivered goods amounted to almost USD 5.63 million, which is 17% more than in February 2025, but 4% less than in March last year.
In March, Ukraine supplied frozen beef mainly to China, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. In January-March 2025, Ukraine exported 4,240 tons of frozen beef (+10%) worth USD 15.75 million (-6%).
The industry association noted that Ukraine did not import live cattle in March 2025. Imports of chilled beef increased to 15.7 tons (+18%), and frozen beef increased to 172.1 tons (+96%) compared to February 2025. Imports of chilled beef increased by 128%, while imports of frozen beef decreased by 5% compared to March 2024. In January-March 2025, Ukraine reduced imports of live cattle to 7 tons (-96%), but increased imports of chilled beef to 34 tons (+10%) and reduced imports of frozen beef to 365 tons (-41%) compared to the previous year.
The foreign trade balance in March 2025 was positive and amounted to USD 9.3 million.
As reported, Ukraine increased exports of dairy products in March 2025. According to preliminary data from the State Statistics Service, in March, 12,270 tons of dairy products were exported for the amount of USD 37.89 million. Compared to February, natural exports increased by 20%, and compared to March last year, they increased by 44%. Export revenue increased by 39% compared to February and by 110% compared to March 2024. In January-March 2025, Ukraine exported 31,140 tons (+21%) of dairy products worth USD 89.77 million (+62%).
Source: Ukraine increased cattle exports in March amid rising beef prices
