Brazil posted record monthly shipments of pork and beef in September, driven by strong global demand and market diversification, according to industry and government data released this week.
Brazil, the world’s top beef exporter and among the largest pork exporters, is increasing business with China and Mexico after the U.S. imposed a 50% tariff on shipments of several Brazilian goods, including beef, in August.
The U.S. used to be the second biggest market for Brazilian beef, but is not a significant destination for pork.
Pork exports totaled 151,600 tonnes, up 25.9% from a year earlier, with revenue reaching a record $368.4 million, a 29.9% increase, data from pork and chicken lobby ABPA showed.
ABPA expects the trend to continue, projecting pork exports will reach up to 1.45 million tonnes in 2025, up from 1.35 million tonnes in 2024.
Brazil also exported a record 314,700 tonnes of fresh beef in September, up 25.1% year-on-year, according to government trade data.
Exports surged despite steep tariffs imposed by the United States in August, as increased shipments to China, Brazil’s top beef importer, and to Mexico, helped offset lower U.S. demand, according to beef industry group Abiec.
Chicken exports showed signs of recovery after bird flu disruptions earlier this year, with September volumes reaching 482,300 tonnes, the highest monthly figure in 11 months, trade data showed.
Industry leaders expect continued momentum for Brazilian meat exports through year-end, supported by resilient demand and expanding access to strategic markets.
(Reporting by Roberto Samora and editing by Ana Mano; Writing by Isabel Teles; Editing by Richard Chang)
