Brazil's poultry exports to EU face uncertainty over antimicrobial compliance

The European Union has officially excluded Brazil from its list of authorised animal protein exporters, impacting Brazil's ability to export products such as poultry, beef, and pork to the EU. This decision, effective from September 3, 2023, follows Brazil's failure to meet the EU's requirements on antimicrobial use in export supply chains.

Background on EU Regulations

The EU's decision stems from a regulation introduced in October 2024, which mandates exporting countries to provide formal guarantees of compliance with antimicrobial use rules. While 92 countries remain authorised to export at least one animal-origin product to the EU, Brazil was unable to provide sufficient information to demonstrate compliance within the required timeframe.

Market Implications

Brazil's exclusion could significantly affect its poultry exports, which amounted to 233,137 tonnes to the EU in 2025, making the EU the eighth-largest destination for Brazilian poultry. The total value of Brazilian animal-origin product exports to the EU was approximately USD 2 billion (EUR 1.75) last year. The Brazilian Animal Protein Association (ABPA) argues that there are no sanitary concerns and that Brazil meets all EU requirements, including those related to antimicrobials.

Industry Response and Negotiations

Brazilian authorities have attempted to negotiate with the EU, proposing a transition period and a private certification protocol for antimicrobial-free cattle exports. However, these efforts have not yet led to a resolution. The Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock has highlighted that the issue is not about non-compliance in shipments but rather the EU's acceptance of Brazil's compliance mechanisms.

Impact on EU-Mercosur Trade

This development coincides with the provisional entry into force of the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement, which has been perceived as a protective measure for European farmers. The agreement includes a duty-free quota for poultry meat, but Brazilian producers are concerned about the implications of the EU's decision on their market share.

In volume terms, it is not significant, but it is a market with attractive pricing, which helps companies' margins.

ABPA president Ricardo Santin

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