Brazil’s Beef Exports to China Surge 38% Amid US Tariffs
Brazil’s beef exports to China climbed by 38% in September compared with the same month last year, reaching record levels as Chinese importers increased purchases in response to new US trade tariffs.
Industry group Abrafrigo reported that shipments to China reached 187,340 tonnes, helping drive total Brazilian beef exports to a record 373,867 tonnes for the month. Export revenue rose to US$1.92 billion, up 49% year on year.
The rise coincides with Washington’s decision to impose additional tariffs of up to 50% on Brazilian products, including beef, on top of existing duties of 26.4%. As a result, exports to the United States dropped sharply in September, falling 41% to US$102.9 million.
Meanwhile, demand from the European Union surged, led by Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands. Exports to the EU grew by 106% to US$131.7 million, making it Brazil’s second-largest beef market for the month.
Abrafrigo added that 130 countries have increased purchases of Brazilian beef so far this year, though 48 have reduced imports.
The shift highlights how tariff pressures and geopolitical tensions are reshaping global beef trade patterns. China’s stronger reliance on Brazil, coupled with renewed European demand, reinforces the country’s position as a key supplier in the global protein market.
Source: Reuters, October 8 2025
(Rewritten and summarised for Meatex.co.uk – original reporting by Reuters)