First such transport from Mercosur: beef arrives in the EU by plane

Argentina has for the first time in its history implemented the export of chilled beef by air to a European Union (EU) country. Will this type of transport become standard once the agreement with the MERCOSUR countries comes into force?

The Argentine media is proud to report that the country's meat sector has achieved a major logistical and commercial breakthrough. For the first time in its history, Argentina has exported chilled beef by air to Europe, opening a new phase in the supply of products to the EU. Portugal was the consignee of the consignment.

Meat arrives in Madrid

The operation bypassed traditional maritime export routes. The meat was flown to Europe on a scheduled flight to Madrid and then delivered overland to the Portuguese importer.

The consignment consisted of more than 4 tonnes of high quality beef, including parts of the „premium“ class that are highly valued in the European market. Up to now, Argentine beef has mainly been transported to foreign markets by sea, mostly frozen. Refrigerated meat transport by air means significantly shorter delivery times, better refrigeration control and the possibility of offering a fresher and higher quality product.

„Premium“ beef

Experts in the Argentine meat sector, speaking to journalists, stressed that such logistics solutions are a response to the growing demand from European buyers for „premium“ beef, which is destined for the gastronomy sector and specialised supermarket chains.

The use of a regional airport was an important element of the whole operation. This demonstrates the potential of Argentina's agri-food exports.

The development of the refrigeration infrastructure allowed for smooth sanitary and customs procedures. In addition, the EU Mercosur agreement will allow a wider opening of the European Union market to Argentinean products, as well as to those of Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and Bolivia.

Argentine beef popular in Portugal

Portugal is one of the EU countries with a particularly high demand for beef.Argentine beef has been highly valued there for many years and new logistical solutions can further strengthen its position in this market.

The first export of chilled beef by air to Europe may provide the impetus for further investment in modern distribution channels. For producers and processors, this represents an opportunity to expand sales channels and increase margins by moving into the high-quality fresh segment.

According to the sector, the success of this operation confirms that the Argentine meat sector is ready to compete not only in terms of volumes but also in terms of quality.