Global meat prices have hit a record high: what are the reasons?
In April 2026, global meat prices reached a new all-time high. The average index stood at 129.4 points, up 1.2% from March and 6.4% higher than in April 2025. The price increase is attributed to a number of factors, including changes in global supply, increased demand for certain types of meat, and a reduction in supply on global markets.
This is statedin a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
The increase reflects higher prices for most meat categories, except for lamb.
Beef prices rose the most due to limited cattle supply in Brazil and high international demand, particularly in China.
Pork prices also rose due to higher prices in the European Union amid growing seasonal demand. At the same time, this increase was partially offset by lower prices in Brazil due to significant inventories.
Poultry prices rose due to higher prices in Brazil, as strong demand from several African markets with surpluses offset lower sales in the Middle East due to the war.
Brazil is the world’s largest exporter of beef and chicken, so changes in its performance can have a significant impact on global meat markets.
Meanwhile, lamb prices showed no significant changes.
Strawberry prices in Kyiv have gone up.
Housing prices in Ukraine have risen but are lagging behind inflation
The NBU cited reasons why fuel prices in Ukraine are not falling despite the drop in oil prices
