The domestic beef market has logged an uptick as wages soar past inflation, the exchange said. Consumer inflation was contained at 39%, although beef prices rose at a steeper 59% over the past 12 months. "As inflation begins to ease and allows the consumer's pocket to loosen up, albeit slowly ... beef consumption tends to recover the place of preference it has historically occupied within the local consumer's shopping basket," said the study. The increased domestic beef consumption so far this year absorbed a supply glut, as exports fell 19% by volume, hurt by a volatile exchange rate, the report said. Argentines had tightened their belts last year due to the high inflation, a recession and rising poverty and unemployment, turning from beef to cheaper meats.