Brazil sets record poultry meat exports in the first half of 2026

Brazil posted record poultry meat exports in the first half of 2026. According to the Brazilian Animal Protein Association (ABPA), the country exported 2.936 mln tons of poultry products between January and June, up 12.9% from the same period last year. Export revenue increased by 17% to a record $5.7 billion.

In June alone, Brazil exported 482.8 thsd tons of poultry meat, including fresh and processed products, up 40.6% year-on-year. Export revenue rose even faster, increasing by 54.7% to $985.5 million, making it one of the strongest monthly performances in the industry’s history.

China remained the largest destination for Brazilian poultry meat in June, importing 50.1 thsd tons. Other key markets included Japan, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, the European Union, South Africa, Mexico, South Korea, the Philippines, and Singapore. The sharp growth in exports to several destinations was also supported by a low comparison base after temporary trade restrictions caused by Brazil’s isolated outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in 2025.

Among Brazil’s exporting states, Paraná remained the leading supplier with 199.3 thsd tons shipped in June, up 48.2% year-on-year. It was followed by Santa Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul, São Paulo, and Goiás, all of which also recorded strong export growth.

ABPA President Ricardo Santin said the record performance was achieved despite geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and logistics challenges affecting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that Brazil strengthened its position in strategically important markets, expanded sales to higher-value destinations, and laid a solid foundation for another record year for poultry meat exports.

Tags: export, Brazil, chicken