EU bans Brazilian meat exports over antimicrobial concerns
The European Union officially prohibited imports of Brazilian beef, chicken, horse meat, fish, honey and offal beginning 3 September 2026, citing insufficient guarantees that antimicrobials are not used in the livestock chain. The decision threatens annual exports worth up to USD 2 billion (about R$ 9 billion), roughly 15‑20 % of Brazil’s protein‑animal trade. Brazil is negotiating with the EU to restore its status, with two main options: tighten legal restrictions on the listed antimicrobials or implement a more rigorous trace‑ability and certification system. Other Mercosur members – Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay – remain authorized. The United Kingdom is expected to adopt similar requirements. Industry groups stress the measure is regulatory, not a safety judgment, and are working with the Ministry of Agriculture to meet the EU’s “One Health” standards. Failure to comply could close a strategic market for Brazilian producers within weeks.