Brazil’s Poultry Exports Hit by Bird Flu Outbreak as Neighboring…

Mexico, Chile, and Uruguay have stopped poultry imports from Brazil following a confirmed bird flu outbreak in Rio Grande do Sul. Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture has implemented measures to contain the virus while ensuring food security. This comes on the heels of various international import bans and a significant increase in Brazilian egg exports to the U.S.

In a swift response to a bird flu outbreak, Mexico, Chile, and Uruguay have suspended imports of poultry from Brazil. This decision follows Brazil’s confirmation of the virus presence on a commercial farm, reported on Friday. As a precautionary measure, Mexico’s National Service for Agro-Alimentary Health, Safety, and Quality announced the temporary halt on chicken meat, fertile eggs, live birds, and other poultry products from Brazil. Chile and Uruguay have enacted similar bans, as confirmed by Luis Rua from Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture.

The Brazilian Agricultural and Livestock ministry stated that the virus was detected in a facility located in Rio Grande do Sul, prompting a contingency plan aimed at controlling the outbreak. The plan focuses not just on containing the virus but also on preserving the productivity of the sector to ensure food security for Brazil’s population. China and the European Union have also reacted by stopping poultry imports from Brazil.

Brazil stands as a key player in the global poultry market, contributing 14% of the world’s chicken meat production, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The timing of this outbreak is particularly concerning given that U.S. egg shortages have dramatically increased Brazilian egg exports to the states, which surged by over 1,000% in early 2025 compared to the previous year.

Brazilian authorities have assured that they have informed relevant organizations, including the World Organization for Animal Health and other trade partners, about the situation. Restrictions imposed on poultry exports are based on international standards and agreements with importing countries, which vary depending on the nature of the outbreak. Some restrictions may apply to the entire country, while others may be localized.

Poultry exports from Brazil have been challenged before due to health concerns. Notably, in 2018, the European Union banned chicken imports from 20 Brazilian plants amid fears of salmonella, prompting Brazil to bring the matter before the World Trade Organization.

With health and safety protocols now in place, Brazil aims to navigate this outbreak while minimizing disruption to its massive poultry sector and maintaining its export strength globally. Further developments will depend on how effectively the country can manage the situation without compromising its food supply industries.

To wrap it up, the bird flu outbreak in Brazil has led to immediate trade reactions from nearby countries like Mexico, Chile, and Uruguay, halting poultry imports as a safety measure. Brazil’s poultry industry, crucial to the global market, faces critical challenges while it attempts to manage the outbreak and ensure food security. This situation is compounded by the precedent of health-related trade restrictions and Brazil’s earlier export disputes, showcasing the delicate balance between managing animal health and international trade dynamics.

Original Source: apnews.com