With the removal of the regulation banning the export of live animals for slaughter purposes, which has been in force since 1973, Argentinian producers are preparing to make their first shipments. This step is considered an important part of the liberalization process in the country’s meat market.
Türkiye is a key market
Although the USA ranks first in live animal imports on a global scale, this trade is largely carried out regionally (on the Canada-Mexico line). In open markets, Türkiye stands out.
Türkiye is the second largest live animal importer in the world, importing more than 700 thousand animals in 2023. Annual demand is over 1.2 million heads. This situation makes Türkiye a strategic market for Argentina.
Halal production and cultural reasons are effective
There are not only economic but also religious and cultural reasons behind Türkiye’s high demand for live animal imports.
Türkiye prefers to feed and slaughter the animals it imports on its own soil. The main reason for this is to ensure halal slaughter standards. Animals are raised under natural conditions and the slaughtering process complies with religious rules. This situation makes live animal imports indispensable for Türkiye.
There is competition: Uruguay and Brazil are ahead
While Argentina is considered new in this field, two strong competitors stand out in South America. Uruguay has been exporting since 2010, its biggest customer is Türkiye. Brazil, on the other hand, is growing rapidly, targeting 1.5 million head in 2025. Both countries sell strongly to markets such as Türkiye, Iraq and Egypt.
According to experts, live animal exports offer a model that supports production rather than competing with the slaughterhouse industry.
A new era in the Türkiye-Argentina line
Argentina-Türkiye Chamber of Commerce President Özgür Yücel Demir states that this new process offers a win-win opportunity for both countries. There is a regular and high-quality live animal supply for Türkiye, and a new export market and economic growth opportunity for Argentina. This cooperation is expected to further strengthen commercial relations between the two countries.
With Argentina lifting the ban, Türkiye may gain a new and powerful alternative in live animal supply. Considering the increasing demand and halal production requirements, this development may directly affect both prices and the supply chain in the coming period.
