Trade, the Expanding Mexican Beef Industry, and Feedlot and Stocker Cattle Production in Mexico

摘要

Cattle raised for export in Mexico represent, on average, over half of total U.S. cattle imports, as the United States has the comparative advantage in feeding cattle. In turn, Mexico imports the largest quantities of U.S. beef and beef products of all U.S. beef trading partners to satisfy the increasing demand for beef, including higher quality feedlot-finished beef. The authors describe the production systems and stocker and feedlot production practices commonly employed in Mexico, including regional factors like production parameters, cattle marketing, and sourcing practices. Changes in consumer demand and continued population and economic growth support the potential for increased fed beef demand in Mexico. As a result of increased fed beef production, feed demand from other livestock industries, competition from crop production for land and water to produce feed and forage, and international competition for inputs, the Mexican beef industry will face tremendous challenges in the coming decades.