MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Uruguayan lamb and mutton exports fall 40% in ten months of 2010

Prices have increased 50% to 4,766 US dollars a ton

Uruguayan lamb and mutton exports during the first 10 months of 2010 fell 40% to 11,628 tons compared with the same period in 2009, while average export prices increased 50% to US$4,766/ton as a result of strong demand.

The fall in Uruguay’s lamb and mutton exports has mainly been influenced by the decline in domestic production, the result the liquidation of their flock in recent years, particularly in 2009, as producers switched to other more profitable enterprises.

The current tight supplies have also contributed to soaring lamb prices in Uruguay.

Prices reached a record U$5.32/kg during the fourth week of October, up 113% year-on-year.

Uruguay’s main export destination continues to be Brazil, accounting for 36% of the total shipments despite falling 11% during the 10 months to October to 4,154 tons.

The Middle East maintained its position as Uruguay’s second largest market despite volumes falling 47% to 3,869 tons, taking 33% of the total.