China’s beef consumption growth slows amid economic caution
Low-end beef drives demand as consumers downgrade
25 April 2025
1 minute read
By: China's beef consumption is expected to grow in 2025, but at a slower pace than in previous years, according to a recent USDA FAS forecast. While per capita consumption still has room to rise, economic uncertainty and cautious spending are expected to temper overall demand.
The trend toward more affordable food options—known as consumption downgrading—is reshaping the market. Lower-priced beef is gaining ground in the mid-to-low-end foodservice sector, as well as in the booming prepared foods industry. Ready-to-eat products like beef meatballs, patties and pre-marinated steaks are increasingly made with low-end beef to meet demand from budget-conscious consumers.
Despite this, beef still faces stiff competition from cheaper proteins such as pork and chicken, which may limit its expansion in the convenience food segment.
Meanwhile, high-end beef remains a small but stable niche, with demand largely confined to fine dining establishments, luxury hotels and premium retailers. Wealthier consumers and younger shoppers looking for healthier and more diverse food options continue to support this segment. To adapt, high-end beef brands are offering smaller, ready-to-cook packages to appeal to home cooks seeking quality and convenience.
