Brazil’s Meat Exports Surge in February 2025, Continuing Record Growth Trajectory

Brazilian meat exporters reported substantial growth across all protein categories in February 2025. The Brazilian Association of Meat Exporting Industries (Abiec) and Brazilian Animal Protein Association (ABPA) released figures showing double-digit revenue increases in beef, chicken, and pork exports.

Beef exports increased 7.5% in volume compared to February 2024, reaching 428,000 tonnes in the first two months. Revenue jumped 16.5% to $1.04 billion in February alone. The cumulative revenue for 2025 has already reached $2.045 billion, a 13.9% year-over-year increase.

Average beef prices rose 8.8%, indicating stronger international demand for Brazilian proteins. China remains the primary destination for Brazilian beef, followed by the United States.

These positive results build on Brazil’s record-breaking 2024, when beef exports hit 2.89 million tonnes, a 26% increase from 2023. Chicken exports also achieved remarkable results, increasing 17.9% in February to 468,400 tonnes.

This marks the best February performance in history for Brazilian chicken exports. Revenue from chicken exports climbed 23.1% to $870.4 million. The pork sector demonstrated equally impressive growth.

February exports rose 17% year-over-year to 97,800 tonnes, setting another February record. Revenue growth outpaced volume, surging 32.6% to $272.9 million. Several factors drive this exceptional performance across meat categories.

Brazil’s Export Growth

A devalued Brazilian real makes exports more competitive internationally. Lower grain prices have reduced production costs for farmers and processors. Health challenges in competing countries have disrupted global supply chains.

Roberto Perosa, Abiec president, emphasized the importance of these exports. “Foreign sales represent about 30% of national production and complement the domestic market,” he stated. The industry now serves specific demands from over 150 international markets.

Brazil actively pursues new market access in Japan, Vietnam, Turkey, and South Korea. These four countries represent approximately 30% of global beef consumption. Industry forecasts project continued growth throughout 2025, likely exceeding initial projections.

The Philippines, China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Chile lead as top destinations for Brazilian pork. For chicken, China leads with a 18.1% increase in imports, followed by the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.