MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Uruguayan meat exports up 70%

Uruguayan beef exports during the first five months of 2004 increased 70% compared to the same period a year before.

According to the latest release from the National Meats Institute, INAC, between January and May, Uruguay sent overseas 267 million US dollars in beef and lamb, compared to the 157 million US dollars of the same period in 2003.

The total volume in the first five months reached 143,886 tons while in 2003, 129,171 tons. Higher prices had a greater impact in overall revenues.

In 2003 the average Uruguayan ton of exported beef was selling at 1,017 US dollars and lambs at 1,653 US dollars; in 2004 prices are: 1,497 and 2,305 US dollars.

The bulk of beef exports this year, 72% was shipped to Nafta countries (US, Canada and Mexico); 10% to the European Union; 7% Mercosur and 6% Israel.