July 11, 2007

Brazil may export fresh beef to Cuba

Brazilian fresh beef might start entering Cuba soon, according to Inacio Kroetz of the Brazilian Agricultural Defence (SDA) under the Brazilian Agriculture Ministry.

Kroetz was invited by the Cuban government and participated in a workshop for animal health sanitary control. The workshop was organised by the Cuban Agriculture Ministry's Veterinary Institute and was attended by a number of Cuban meat suppliers and distributors.

Though the Cuban meat market is a small one, Kroetz said opening of new export markets is important for Brazil as it will further expand Brazilian beef in the global market. In addition, Cuba will represent one more country that officially recognises the quality of Brazilian animal health sanitary control.

Currently, Brazil only exports processed beef and dairy products to Cuba. Brazilian processed beef exports to Cuba totalled US$22.5 million (16.5 million euro) in 2006.