Rabbit farming gains ground in Parana, boosts rabbit meat exports

Rabbit farming is gaining ground in Parana, although it still operates on a limited scale relative to its market potential. According to the Economic Overview Bulletin published by Deral, the state agriculture department’s rural economics unit, the activity stands out for its short production cycle, driven by the animals’ high reproduction rate.

“It is a prolific and fast-growing animal, which results in a short production cycle,” the bulletin said.

Rabbit meat stands out for its high nutritional value and low cholesterol content. It also contains 28% protein and 10.2% fat, levels above those seen in chicken, beef and pork. In addition to meat, rabbit farming allows producers to generate income from hides, paws, manure and young animals sold to pet shops, broadening revenue streams.

Production still plays a secondary role on farms

Despite its potential, most farms still raise rabbits as a complementary activity, keeping small herds alongside other crops or livestock. Current production serves the domestic market only with difficulty, although the international market is seen as significant and promising, especially in countries such as France, Italy and Spain, where rabbit meat consumption is higher.

Historical and current trends in Parana’s herd

Deral points to changes in rabbit farming over the years:

• 2006 Agricultural Census: 54,208 rabbits
• 2017 IBGE survey: 23,625 animals across 2,040 farms
• 2023 Deral data: 27,181 animals and 183,198 kg of meat, generating 2.241 million reais
• 2024 Deral data: 24,170 animals and 145,660 kg of meat, generating 1.815 million reais

Production is concentrated in Foz do Iguacu, Francisco Beltrao and Dois Vizinhos, the municipalities that lead both in herd size and slaughter volume.

Rabbit meat exports expand

In foreign markets, Brazil posted strong growth in rabbit meat exports in 2025. According to Agrostat Brasil, shipments totaled 14,892 kg, generating revenue of $33,343, up 145.5% in volume and 157.2% in value from 2024.

The sales were made by companies based in Bahia, Para and Maranhao, with cargo shipped to countries including the Marshall Islands, Liberia, Singapore, Panama and Norway.

Room for expansion

Despite its still limited scale, rabbit farming has characteristics that support expansion, especially amid rising demand for quality protein and greater diversification of animal-based products. The sector could become a strategic alternative for small and medium-sized producers in Parana, combining profitability, a short production cycle and a promising international market.

Source: Portal do Agronegócio

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