EU halts imports of meat and other animal products from Brazil

The European Union halted imports of several animal products from Brazil from September 3, including beef, chicken, eggs and honey. The restrictions are linked to EU requirements on the use of antimicrobials in livestock production. Brazil will need to demonstrate compliance with European standards before trade can resume.

The greatest uncertainty surrounds the beef market. The EU is an important buyer of high-value premium Brazilian beef cuts, which are difficult to redirect quickly to alternative markets at comparable prices. Market participants note that adapting the sector to the new requirements could take considerable time due to the long beef production cycle.

The impact on Brazilian poultry is expected to be more limited. The EU accounted for 4.3% of Brazil’s poultry exports in 2025, totaling 231.3 thsd tons, while its share increased to 6.5%, or 189.9 thsd tons, in the first half of 2026. Exporters have already begun redirecting products to alternative destinations, including the Middle East and Mexico.

The restrictions relate to EU rules prohibiting the use of antibiotics to promote animal growth, as well as antimicrobials reserved for treating humans. Meanwhile, other major Latin American suppliers, including Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay, retain access to the European market.

Brazilian producers have already introduced a separate protocol to control antimicrobial use and hope to regain access to the EU once compliance with European requirements is confirmed. However, the timing remains uncertain. If the restrictions remain in place for an extended period, some Brazilian beef and poultry could be redirected to other markets, increasing supply and putting pressure on prices there.

Tags: EU, meat, chicken, Beef cattle, imports, honey, chicken eggs, Brazil