Brazil and Egypt have significantly strengthened their trade relations, especially in the meat export sector, through a strategic “pre-listing” agreement.
During President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s recent visit to Egypt, an arrangement was secured simplifying the export process for Brazilian beef, pork, and poultry.
This was achieved by recognizing the equivalence of Brazil’s meat inspection systems with those of Egypt.
This achievement builds on discussions initiated during a November visit to Cairo by Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (Mapa) delegation.
The talks culminated in the agreement, underscoring the mutual trust in Brazil’s sanitary control standards, particularly its Federal Inspection Service (SIF).
Additionally, it resulted in the opening of Egypt’s market to Brazilian fish products.
The “pre-listing” protocol reflects Egypt’s confidence in Brazilian sanitary measures, facilitating increased meat exports.
Brazilian establishments previously underwent expensive on-site audits by Egyptian authorities for export qualifications and new processing unit approval.
This change holds the promise of reducing expenses and administrative burdens for Brazilian exporters.
It could potentially accelerate the approval process for approximately 30 Brazilian establishments that have been awaiting certification since 2019.
Formalizing this agreement involved key diplomatic and agricultural representatives from both countries, highlighting the partnership’s significance.
In 2023, Brazil’s exports to Egypt surpassed $1.7 billion, with meat products accounting for a significant portion.
This development marks a trade milestone and boosts Brazil’s global meat export leadership.
The strategic collaboration between Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Mapa supports it.