Slow down in China’s beef demand hits key suppliers

China was the destination for more than 52pc of Brazil's beef sales last year. Photo: Mario Tama/Getty Images

Clarice Couto and Gerson Freitas

China's beef imports are dwindling amid slowing consumption and ample domestic supply, dealing a blow to its biggest supplier, Brazil.

Official data shows the value of China beef imports fell last year for the first time since at least 2016, with prices plunging to the lowest level in almost three years. Import volumes are expected to fall 4pc this year, ending 12 straight years of meteoric rise, according to the US Department of Agriculture.