European Union restricts Brazilian animal product exports

The European Union is set to implement restrictions on certain Brazilian animal products starting September 3, 2026. The decision stems from concerns regarding insufficient guarantees for the control of antimicrobial use within the Brazilian production chain.

This measure is expected to impact the Brazilian protein sector, potentially leading to a reorganization of exports and pressure on domestic meat prices. The EU is a significant market for high-value-added goods, particularly premium beef cuts. Last year, EU countries imported approximately 128,900 tons of Brazilian beef.

The Brazilian government is contesting the decision, maintaining that the national sanitary control system meets international standards. The Brazilian Association of Meat Exporting Industries (Abiec) also stated that Brazilian production complies with the sanitary and regulatory requirements of major international markets, noting that the country exports to over 170 destinations.