Brazil Seeks New Markets to Expand Beef Exports; Expert Analyzes Impact of U.S. Tariffs

Brazil, the world’s largest beef exporter, aims to reach 3.7 million tonnes of beef exports in 2025. According to the Brazilian Beef Exporters Association (Abiec), last year, the country achieved its best performance ever, exporting 2.8 million tons and generating over USD 12.8 billion in revenue.

U.S. Tariff Impact Expected to Be Limited, Says Expert

Despite the U.S. government imposing a 10% tariff on Brazilian products, trade expert Rogério Marin, CEO of Tek Trade, believes the measure will not significantly affect Brazilian beef exports. “The U.S. has strong domestic demand and mainly imports beef for specific niches, such as lean meat for hamburgers. Even with added costs, Brazil’s high competitiveness and continued strong demand should sustain export growth,” Marin explained.

Brazilian Beef Exports Remain Strong in 2025

By April 2025, Brazilian companies had already exported 423,833 tons of beef, generating over USD 2 billion in revenue. Brazil currently exports to more than 150 countries, with China as the top destination, followed by the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Chile, and Hong Kong. These markets account for most of the sector’s revenue, estimated at over USD 8 billion.

Optimistic Outlook for the Sector in 2025

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Brazil is expected to export around 3.6 million tons of beef in 2025, close to the projection from Brazil’s National Supply Company (Conab), which forecasts up to 3.7 million tons. Factors driving this optimism include the depreciation of Brazilian real estate, reduced supply from competitors like Australia and New Zealand, and progress in trade agreements.

New Strategic Markets: Japan and Vietnam

Brazil is targeting Japan and Vietnam as strategic markets to diversify its export portfolio. Japan, known for its stringent sanitary standards, represents a high-value market focused on premium products. With a growing middle class, Vietnam is emerging as a promising destination for higher-quality beef cuts.

Marin notes, “Agreements with Japan and Vietnam help reduce Brazil’s dependence on China—its largest importer—and bring greater stability to exports by mitigating risks associated with relying on a single market.” However, entry into these markets requires traceability, certifications, and product quality improvements.

See below the main destinations for Brazilian beef. The chart was created using DataLiner data:

Top 10 Destinations for Brazilian Beef Exports | Jan – Mar 2025 | TEUs

Source: DataLiner (click here to request a demo)

Sustainability and Continued Growth

Focusing on innovation and international expansion, Brazil aims to maintain its global leadership in the beef trade. The country is capitalizing on global opportunities and working to overcome challenges such as tariffs and sanitary barriers to ensure sustainable growth in the sector.

Source: Portal do Agronegócio

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