The agreement, which began in June 202,5 was established through cooperation between Burkina Faso’s Centre for the Promotion of Poultry Farming and the Multiplication of High-Performing Animals (CPAMAP) and the Daniel Franco Institute in Brazil. 

The imported cattle include specialised breeds such as Guzéra, Gir, Holstein, and Nelore. The first three breeds are targeted at strengthening dairy production, while the Nelore breed is expected to support beef production, with the ability to reach weights of up to 1,100 kilograms by the age of five.

Burkina Faso’s local dairy cows currently produce between 0.5 and 1.3 litres of milk daily. The imported Brazilian breeds are capable of producing between 15 and 40 litres per day. 

“Brazil has expertise in breeding high-performing breeds and also similarities in climatic conditions with Burkina Faso. We thought that the animals coming from this country might adapt better,” said Ardiouma Sirima, Director General of CPAMAP.

This importation is part of Burkina Faso's broader efforts to reduce its dependence on dairy imports, which averaged 25,000 tonnes per year from 2020 to 2024. Supporting programmes include Faso Kosam, which focuses on dairy processing, and Faso Abattoir, which aims to improve meat production and export infrastructure .

While Burkina Faso looks to strengthen its domestic capacity, Brazil continues to set records in beef exports. 

In October 2025, Brazil exported 357,000 tonnes of beef, the highest monthly figure in its history. This represents an 18.7% increase compared to October 2024 and generated revenue of US$1.90 billion.

Data from the Association of Brazilian Beef Exporters (ABIEC) shows that Brazil’s total beef exports from January to October 2025 reached 2.79 million tonnes, with a revenue of US$14.31 billion—a 35.9% increase over 2024. 

Brazilian beef reached 162 markets during the year. China accounted for 53% of October exports, while exports to Mexico rose by 213%, the European Union by 109%, and the United States by 45%, despite increased tariffs.

Meanwhile, more accessible yet still luxurious options like ribeye cap, tomahawk, porterhouse, New York strip, and filet mignon fetch over $70, a showcase of the evolving taste and purchasing power of consumers.

According to Steak Revolution , Olive Wagyu commands over $200–$400 per pound, prized for its extraordinary marbling and buttery texture derived from cattle fed on olives. Other varieties of Japanese Wagyu range between $75–$400, while Australian Wagyu typically falls into the $100–$200 bracket.

This era of premium steak indulgence comes amid a backdrop of rising beef prices worldwide. In the United States, the average price of uncooked beef steak has soared to a record $11.49 per pound, marking an 8% year-over-year increase.

Ground beef isn't far behind, with a staggering 12% surge to $6.12 per pound. Experts warn this inflation may persist into 2026, driven by tight supplies and shrinking cattle inventories.

Restaurants are responding by revamping menus and leaning into vertical supply chains to stabilise costs and ensure quality.

The global steak market is thriving—valued at USD 76.5 billion in 2023, with projections pointing to USD 110.7 billion by 2032, thanks to growing demand for high-protein, gourmet dining experiences. Premiumisation of meat, boosted by consumer demand for quality and health-conscious choices, continues to drive the market.

In the UK, fresh food inflation hit 2.4% in May 2025, with beef prices playing a significant role. Supply chain disruptions, fewer cattle, and strong international demand—especially from China—are pushing prices upward.

Meanwhile, Argentina’s famed steak exports are on the decline, falling nearly 20% in early 2025 due to a strengthened peso and elevated production costs undermining competitiveness. Top buyer China particularly cut back, leading meatpackers to reduce staff and even shut down some plants.

On the other hand, Australia is experiencing a boom: beef exports jumped 24% in 2024, earning AUD 14 billion, as the nation reclaims its role as a leader in premium, sustainable beef amidst global shortages.

A map produced by The World in Maps highlights four nations where cattle reign supreme over the human race and underscores the vital role livestock plays in their economies, exports, and cultural heritage.

Argentina stands out with  53.8 million cattle , surpassing its 45.5 million citizens. Known for its vast pampas and world-famous beef, Argentina’s cattle industry is beyond big business. It’s a national symbol.

Brazil, with its huge 252.7 million cattle, far exceeds its population of 211.1 million people. As a global leader in beef exports, Brazil’s livestock sector fuels international food markets and supports millions of jobs across the country.

In Uruguay, the dominance of cattle is even more striking: 11.9 million cows compared to just 3.3 million people. That’s more than three cows per person. Uruguay’s premium beef is in high demand worldwide, making livestock a cornerstone of its economy.

New Zealand rounds up the list with 10 million cattle for a population of 5.2 million. Known for its rolling green pastures and premium dairy products, New Zealand’s cattle sector is integral to both its exports and rural identity.

According to FAOSTAT’s latest figures , the global cattle population exceeds 1 billion head, with Latin America and Asia leading production.

Brazil alone accounts for nearly 25% of South America's cattle, supporting both domestic consumption and export demands, while Uruguay’s beef industry is so robust that it exports over 70% of its beef production, mainly to China and the European Union .