Sep 10, 2025
Brazil declared bird flu free, boosting EU chicken trade
The European Union has lifted its ban on Brazilian chicken imports following Brazil's recognition as a bird-flu free nation. This decision marks a significant step towards normalising trade relations that were disrupted by a bird flu outbreak earlier this year.
Background
In May, Brazil experienced its first-ever bird flu outbreak, prompting several countries to impose restrictions on its chicken exports. These measures were implemented to prevent the spread of the virus, affecting Brazil's poultry trade significantly. The European Union, a major importer of Brazilian chicken, had also halted imports during this period.
EU's Decision
The recent decision by the EU to resume imports comes after a high-level videoconference involving Brazilian Agriculture Minister Carlos Favaro, Brazil's Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Andre de Paula, and the EU's Commissioner for Animal Health and Welfare, Oliver Varhelyi. During this meeting, the EU was satisfied with the information provided by Brazilian authorities regarding the containment and management of the bird flu outbreak.
Market Implications
The resumption of Brazilian chicken exports to the EU is expected to have a positive impact on trade. As of June, the EU had already imported 125,300 tons of chicken meat from Brazil, reflecting a 20.8% increase compared to the previous year. This trade was valued at $386.3 million (EUR 329.78), according to data from Brazil's chicken and pork lobby ABPA. With the lifting of restrictions, these figures are likely to rise, benefiting both Brazilian exporters and European importers.
China, another major importer of Brazilian chicken, has maintained its restrictions, while other countries have gradually lifted theirs. The EU's decision could influence other nations to follow suit, further stabilising Brazil's poultry export market.
Minister Favaro, I have good news: our assessment is that the data provided by your ministry is sufficient to recognise that Brazil is free of avian influenza
Oliver Varhelyi, EU's Commissioner for Animal Health and Welfare
The lifting of the ban is a positive development for Brazilian poultry exporters and is expected to enhance trade relations with the EU, providing a boost to the industry.