In South America, it's not just meat that's sizzling on the grill - the market for protein processing is also running at full steam. As cattle, poultry and, increasingly, plant-based alternatives run through the production lines, the demand for modern, automated and hygienic systems is growing. German mechanical engineering companies play a central role in this - and are increasingly investing directly on site.
South America on the upswing - and hungry for technology "Made in Germany"
The demand for meat products is steadily increasing in countries such as Brazil, Argentina and Chile. At the same time, the shortage of skilled workers, increased hygiene requirements and international competitive pressure are driving automation in slaughterhouses and processing plants. German suppliers - known for quality, durability and technological innovation - provide the right solutions.
Whether from Breidenbach, Lübeck or Oelde, the high-tech lines "Made in Germany" integrate portioning, weighing, packaging and palletizing in an automated workflow. Robots reduce labor costs, hygienic design and CIP systems shorten cleaning times, and IIoT tools provide real-time data for efficiency monitoring - ideal for a market environment that is increasingly focused on transparency and efficiency.
Figures & targets: Where German technology is particularly in demand
- Brazil is the largest single market with record meat production and an import volume of € 180 million. Many companies are modernizing their lines here - often with technology from Germany.
- Argentina shows strong interest in energy-efficient cutter and filling systems, especially for cattle and poultry processing.
- Chile is smaller, but open to cutting-edge technology - especially in the premium segment such as salmon or delicatessen poultry.
Strategies of mechanical engineering companies: local presence pays off
Companies like Weber Food Technology, GEA, MULTIVAC or Seydelmann are no longer just investing in exports, but also in local value creation. New subsidiaries, service bases, training centers and trade fair presences are key building blocks for increasing customer proximity and speed of response. Spare parts within 24 hours, digital service platforms and local knowledge transfer give German companies strategic advantages.
Challenges remain - but opportunities outweigh them
Volatile exchange rates and regulatory diversity are making investments more difficult. Market pressure from Asia is also growing. Nevertheless, the starting position is promising: the planned EU-Mercosur agreement could reduce customs duties, and the trend towards alternative proteins is creating new fields of application - from bioreactors to high-moisture extrusion.
Conclusion: those who invest early, grill with
Despite economic dips, South America remains a future market for the German food processing industry. Those who rely on modular concepts, local services and technological leadership will secure a lasting slice of the growing protein pie - whether from the churrasco spit or from the plant-based bioreactor.
