EU Lifts Poultry Import Ban, Boosting Brasil's Export Prospects

The European Union (EU) has officially recognized Brazil as free from avian influenza, clearing the path for the resumption of Brazilian poultry exports to EU member states. This development follows a videoconference on September 4, where the Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Carlos Fávaro, along with André de Paula, the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, engaged with Olivér Várhelyi, the EU Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare.

The dialogue marked the culmination of discussions initiated in May, when the EU imposed restrictions after identifying an avian influenza outbreak at a commercial poultry farm in Montenegro, Rio Grande do Sul. Brazil declared itself free of the disease in June, after completing disinfection protocols and a 28-day waiting period void of new cases, paving the way for this announcement. The EU becomes the latest among 41 countries, including Chile, Saudi Arabia, Namibia, and North Macedonia, to lift import restrictions after acknowledging Brazil's avian influenza-free status. However, other nations such as Canada, China, Malaysia, Pakistan, and Timor-Leste maintain their import barriers.

During the virtual meeting, Commissioner Várhelyi expressed optimism regarding the gradual lifting of restrictions, suggesting a positive vote among EU states, given Brazil’s compliance with sanitary requirements. Fávaro highlighted the significance of moving forward by reinstating the pre-listing system for exports, which had been suspended since 2018. This mechanism acknowledges Brazil's sanitary inspections, simplifying international trade procedures for its products.

As the largest global poultry exporter, Brazil's affirmation from the EU is strategic, particularly considering that the EU ranks as the seventh-largest importer of Brazilian poultry. Despite these advances, larger markets such as China, the principal importer, still uphold restrictions, underscoring ongoing international sanitary diplomacy.

André de Paula used the occasion to push for a resumption of Brazilian fish exports to the EU, emphasizing historical trade relations characterized by transparency. He urged for a prompt review of fish trade embargoes, with Brazil open to EU sanitary audits by 2025. Such cooperative international engagements are crucial in restoring trade ties in the agribusiness sector while reinforcing mutual trust and market access.

At stake is not only the Brazilian poultry industry but also broader expectations for rekindling commercial exchanges with significant economies such as the European Union and potentially the United Kingdom, contingent on continued sanitary diligence and diplomacy.

Recognizing Brazil’s robust and transparent sanitary control systems, the EU's upcoming actions will focus on progressively lifting export restrictions and resuming previously approved trading areas. This outcome reflects Brazil’s commitment to adhering to global health standards and restoring its foothold in global agribusiness.

It remains paramount for Brazil to keep advancing on these fronts, as it aims to cement its agribusiness reputation and secure strategic markets vital for national economic growth amidst global challenges and market dynamics.