Brazil Aims To Replace U.S. In Meat Exports To China

During the BRICS meeting, Brazil's agriculture minister highlights the country's capacity to expand production for global markets.

In a significant development for global agriculture, Brazilian Minister of Agriculture Carlos Fávaro announced during the recent BRICS Ministerial Meeting that Brazil is poised to potentially replace the United States as a key supplier of meat to China. This announcement came on April 17, 2025, during a gathering held at the Itamaraty Palace in Brasília, which included representatives from all eleven BRICS nations.

The meeting aimed to address pressing agricultural challenges and promote sustainable practices among member countries. Delegations from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran participated in discussions that emphasized the need for cooperation in tackling global agricultural issues.

Fávaro highlighted Brazil's capacity to expand its national production, stating, "Although the replacement is not integral, Brazil has the capacity to expand national production." This statement underscores Brazil's ambitions to enhance its agricultural output and meet the demands of the Chinese market, which has historically relied on U.S. meat imports.

The backdrop of this announcement is significant, as the U.S. has faced various trade challenges in recent years, including tariffs and changing diplomatic relations. Brazil's positioning as an alternative supplier could reshape meat trade dynamics, especially considering China's growing appetite for imported meat.