During a webinar on Thursday, May 28, 2020, Germain Milet 'economist at the Institut de l'Elevage' observed “From young calf to breeding calf and including fattening cattle or slaughter cattle, the trade in live cattle has been growing steadily since 2012 ”.
Between 2012 and 2019, exports of live cattle increased by 49% to third countries. The Mediterranean basin is considered to be the world's leading importer of live cattle. The European market has a good chance of standing out on the Mediterranean rim.
In Europe, only 7% of cattle exports concern young calves (over 300 kg). While, 55% of cattle exports relate to young calves (over 300kg) in France.
Exporting live over long distances is very expensive with multiple constraints. Only breeding or weaned and light cattle can amortize these costs. However, competition remains very strong between Australia, South America and Europe towards third countries.