Brazil's 2026 Trade Surge Driven by Agriculture and Defense Exports

Brazil posted a strong trade surplus of US$ 40.3 billion in the first half of 2026, helped by record agribusiness sales and a sharp rise in defense‑industry shipments.

Agricultural exports reached a historic US$ 70.5 billion from January to May, up 4.6 % year‑on‑year. China remained the dominant market, buying about 40 % of the sector’s sales – US$ 6.3 billion in May alone – and leading in purchases of soybeans, beef and other protein products. Soybean grain shipments rose 14.6 % to US$ 6.3 billion, while beef exports jumped 50 %.

Defence‑product authorisations for export totaled US$ 1.815 billion in the first six months, a 29 % increase over 2025. Brazil now supplies 150 countries through roughly 130 firms, with key items including aircraft parts, explosives, artillery systems and advanced munition services.

At the same time, imports of agro‑chemical formulations fell 6.8 % to US$ 4.28 billion (Jan‑May). Generic products gained share as growers seek lower‑cost options. China supplied 72 % of the herbicide value and 90 % of the volume, underscoring Brazil’s reliance on Chinese inputs.

Together, the agricultural boom and expanding defence export portfolio reinforce Brazil’s position as a major global trader while highlighting ongoing dependencies on the Chinese market.