Brazil Begins Reopening of Chicken Export Markets

After declaring itself free of avian influenza, Brazil is working to reverse restrictions imposed by key importers of its chicken products. South Africa was among the first countries to ease these measures, allowing imports of Brazilian chicken, except for products from Rio Grande do Sul. In this state, the country’s only confirmed outbreak occurred at a commercial farm. This development is significant, as South Africa is one of Brazil’s top poultry markets, having imported 325,000 tonnes in 2024.

Rio Grande do Sul is a central poultry-producing region, accounting for 11.52% of Brazil’s total chicken slaughter. The export halt has cost producers in the state more than USD 47.8 million. While the reopening by South Africa marks a positive step, several other countries have yet to lift their bans on Brazilian poultry, despite the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Supply (MAPA) formally notifying international authorities of the country’s updated sanitary status.

In 2022, Brazil produced 14.9 million tonnes of chicken, with 35.4% destined for foreign markets, cementing its position as the world’s leading chicken exporter. Major buyers include China, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa. MAPA confirms that all necessary sanitary protocols have been followed, enabling Brazil to regain its status as avian influenza-free.

Here is a historical overview of Brazilian chicken meat exports starting from January 2022. The chart was created using DataLiner data:

Brazilian Chicken Meat Exports | Jan 2022 – Apr 2025 | TEUs

Source: DataLiner (click here to request a demo)

However, the continued presence of the virus in wild birds remains a concern, with 168 confirmed cases reported since 2023. The Brasília Zoo, for example, remains closed due to infections found in birds. To date, the ministry has conducted more than 4,200 investigations. While the consumption of meat and eggs remains safe, Brazilian authorities emphasize the importance of ongoing surveillance and strict adherence to protocols to ensure public health and maintain confidence in the country’s poultry products.

Source: Portal AZ

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