Brazilian beef exports grew 33 per cent in volume in the first quarter of 2022, largely boosted by China, despite some recent import restrictions believed to have been linked to health reasons.
Earlier this month, China’s General Administration of Customs (CGAC) suspended imports from two Brazilian beef units and one chicken producer.
The suspensions, which will be in force until 15 April, targeted a JBS beef unit in Goiás, a Marfrig beef unit in Mato Grosso and a chicken unit in São Paulo owned by Zanchetta.
CGAC did not give a reason for the suspensions, although the most likely reason is health safety concerns, namely the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to the Brazilian meatpackers association, in the first quarter of 2022 China imported 275,300 tonnes, which represents 50.45 per cent of the 545,751 tonnes of beef exported by Brazil.
In March, Brazil exported 203,494 tonnes of beef, a record volume for the month. Revenue was also a record: US$1.124 billion.
In comparison with the same month last year, Brazil’s export volume grew 28 per cent and the revenue increased 57 per cent. In addition to the growth in exports, average product prices rose from US$4,415 to US$5,319, CLBrief reported.
