January 15, 2010

Brazil expects EU beef sales to rise 10%

Brazilian beef exports to the EU could rise to between 200,000 and 300,000 tonnes this year, compared to 150,000 tonnes in 2009.

In 2007, Brazil shipped 280,000 tonnes of beef and beef products to the EU, nearly half of the EU's total beef imports, including 194,000 tonnes of raw beef -- a trade which was greatly restricted by the EU in 2008.

Roberto Giannetti da Fonseca, president of the Association of Exporters of Beef (ABIEC), said beef exports are expected to recover 20% in value and 10% in volume after 2009 difficulties caused by the global financial crisis.

Brazil expects increased sales to China, Chile, North Africa and the EU.