China enables exports for 38 new Brazilian meat plants

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This week, Brazilian official sources reported that China has granted access to export to 38 new meat processing plants in Brazil, marking a significant 35% increase in the number of companies allowed to supply the Asian market. This measure raises the total number of authorized companies from 106 to 144, consolidating China as Brazil’s main trading partner.

China’s Customs Administration has extended permits to 24 beef slaughterhouses, 8 poultry facilities, as well as intermediary companies and a producer of thermally processed beef, the latter being the first to receive approval to export to China, as highlighted by the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This important development reflects the ongoing strengthening of commercial ties between the two nations, which celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations this year. In 2023, China imported $8.3 billion worth of Brazilian meat, representing 37% of all meat sales from Brazil.

This latest authorization also highlights the speed of approvals by China compared to other countries, such as Argentina, where the process has been slower. While Brazil celebrates the opening of new meat processing plants, Argentina seeks the reopening of the poultry market, with negotiations pending since March of last year.

In an additional move, China has chosen not to renew the antidumping measures imposed in 2019 on Brazilian chicken exports, removing surcharges ranging from 17.8% to 34.2%. This decision has increased the competitiveness of Brazilian chicken exports in the Chinese market and created opportunities for other producers in the country.

Secretary of Commerce and International Relations Roberto Perosa highlighted that this round of authorizations is the largest number granted simultaneously in history, solidifying Brazil’s position as one of the main meat suppliers to China.