In 2025, Ukraine exported 19.6 thousand tons of beef, which is 15% lower than the 5-year average

Beef production and cattle livestock in Ukraine are undergoing changes under the influence of war risks and economic challenges. At the end of 2025, total beef production amounted to 222 thousand tons. Despite the reduction in total livestock numbers, Ukraine continues to actively export beef and live cattle, responding to high international demand.

Key insights regarding this sector:

• Reduction in cattle livestock: in 2025, the number of cattle is 2.0 million heads, which is 10% less compared to 2024 and 24% below the 5-year average. The most significant decline is observed in private households and eastern regions due to hostilities and farm-related risks. The share of cattle held by agricultural enterprises is 45% (0.9 million head), while households account for 55% (1.1 million head).
• Export orientation and key markets: beef exports in 2025 reached 19.6 thousand tons, which is only 1.5% less than the 2024 figure. Since the domestic market is less active, producers are optimizing sales by focusing on more profitable external markets. Exports of frozen beef are increasing significantly, though chilled beef exports remain limited and uneven. In 2025, the main export destinations were European countries outside the EU (44.7%) and Asia (40.5%), reflecting stable demand in these regions.
• Declining imports: beef imports remain low and continue to decrease annually. In 2025, they are projected at 2 thousand tons, which is 35% lower than in 2024 and 4.5 times below the 5-year average.

Conclusion: Economic difficulties in maintaining livestock in rural areas and war risks are leading to a decrease in livestock numbers. However, global demand for meat encourages Ukrainian farmers and enterprises to increase shipments abroad, making foreign trade a strategic factor in supporting the industry.

Learn more in the Agricultural Outlook 2025: https://cutt.ly/XtQeCL7O