After FAEP System Request, MAPA Extends Public Consultation on Tilapia Imports

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) announced this Friday (7) that the deadline for submitting suggestions to the public consultation on tilapia imports will be extended by 60 days. The consultation was initially opened on December 10, 2024, with a deadline set for February 10. Now, the new deadline is April 10. The FAEP System and other industry organizations requested the extension, arguing that the original timeframe was insufficient for proper debate, especially given the sector’s importance to Paraná’s economy.

Paraná has been Brazil’s largest tilapia producer for years, accounting for 36% of national production (213,300 tons in 2023). “Year after year, aquaculture generates more jobs and income for Paraná, even producing a surplus for export. We cannot penalize producers and agribusinesses that are making investments and now see their businesses at risk due to the potential import of a product that could bring both sanitary and economic issues,” said Ágide Eduardo Meneguette, interim president of the FAEP System.

In addition to supplying the domestic market, Paraná is also Brazil’s top tilapia exporter, having shipped $35 million worth of tilapia abroad in 2024—64% of the country’s total exports. Brazil is currently the fourth-largest tilapia supplier to the United States, with exports doubling yearly, particularly in the fresh fillet segment. Thanks to an extremely efficient logistics network, Brazilian tilapia reaches U.S. store shelves in less than 36 hours.

Other Actions

Beyond engaging with the federal government, the FAEP System is also pursuing other measures to prevent tilapia imports. On February 3, the organization and other representatives from the private sector and public authorities submitted a document to Governor Carlos Massa Junior, requesting intervention to block potential tilapia imports. The document emphasizes that the sector requires commercial support and sanitary protection to reach its full potential.

Background on Tilapia Imports

Concerns over tilapia imports emerged in December 2023 when Brazil imported 25,000 kilograms from Vietnam. At the time, the FAEP System sent a formal statement to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture opposing the purchase. The Paraná-based organization argued that importing tilapia from other countries harms Brazilian and Paraná’s fish farming industries.

Source: Notícias Agrícolas

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