The measure also affects other Brazilian animal products, including eggs and honey. In May, Brazil was removed from the European list of countries that provide sufficient guarantees that their animal products are produced in accordance with the relevant EU regulations.
Antibiotics
This is not about detecting excessive antibiotics in Brazilian meat. The issue is that Brazil cannot sufficiently guarantee that throughout the entire lifespan of the animals the European rules for antimicrobial agents have been met. This applies to all livestock farms, everywhere, across vast Brazil.
Those regulations prohibit the use of antimicrobial agents to make animals grow faster. The EU requires that imported animal products from countries outside the Union comply with these conditions. The required guarantees must cover the entire production period of the animals involved. This is difficult for Brazilian regulatory authorities to achieve.
Promotion
Poultry
Brazil is currently trying to prove that it meets the conditions for poultry and honey. European inspectors are in Brazil investigating production, processing, and control systems. The audit lasts until September 4, a day after the import suspension has come into effect.
If the outcome is positive and EU countries agree, Brazilian poultry exports could possibly resume within a few weeks. For beef exports, it may take longer. According to the European Commission, how quickly Brazil can demonstrate compliance during the required production period varies by animal species.
Major Supplier
The economic stakes are significant. In 2025, Brazil was the second-largest supplier of beef to the EU and sold more than 92,000 tons of beef products to Europe, worth over 713 million euros. Brazilian poultry meat also represents a substantial trade flow to the European market.
Pork
Pork is a notable exception. Brazilian pork exports to the EU are very small compared to beef and poultry and are not affected by this suspension. Horse meat is also mentioned in the European measures, alongside other animal products whose Brazilian approval is impacted.
Meanwhile, Brussels and Brasília continue consultations on the issue. The European Commission calls Brazil an important partner and says it is working closely with Brazilian authorities. Once Brazil can prove compliance with European requirements, the relevant export flows to the EU can be resumed.