Brazil focusing on EU and Chilean beef markets

Brazil's beef industry appears to be focusing its exports on the EU and Chile, as key markets such as Russia and the Middle East increase their sales of cheaper protein sources like pork and poultry.

Beef exports to Chile could reach 100,000 tonnes per year, after seven Brazilian states were recognised last week as foot-and-mouth disease free by the Chilean government, according to the Brazilian Beef Exporters Association (ABIEC).

Brazil's next step to regain market share in Chile is the release of authorised plants by Chilean authorities. Last year, Brazil exported only 2,570 tonnes to Chile against 104,300 tonnes in 2004.

Meanwhile, Brazil is waiting for the EU to release the results of an audit performed in February on the country's cattle traceability system. With the list of approved farms increasing, Brazil could export about 150,000 tonnes of beef to the EU.

Last year, Brazilian beef shipments to the EU were 35,000 tonnes, down 89 percent from 305,000 tonnes in 2006.