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  • Writer's pictureAlicia Diaz

Brazilian Pork Exports Soar to New Heights, Defying Industry Expectations



Containers in Brazil

In 2023, Brazil achieved an unprecedented milestone in the pork sector by exporting a record-breaking 1.2 million metric tons, marking a remarkable 9.8% surge from the previous year, as reported by the Poultry and Pork Meat Association (ABPA).


The surge in Brazilian pork exports was fueled by increased shipments to key destinations and the successful opening of new markets, all while navigating a slight downturn in sales to China. Despite this challenge, the revenue from exports reached an impressive $2.8 billion, reflecting a substantial 9.5% year-on-year growth.


ABPA President, Ricardo Santin, expressed confidence in the record-breaking performance of Brazilian pork exports in 2023. He affirmed, "Given the opening of new markets for Brazilian pork and the positive outlook for traditional destinations, it is anticipated that the momentum achieved in the past year will be sustained in the coming year." Looking ahead, ABPA forecasts that Brazil will continue its success story, projecting pork exports to reach 1.3 million tons in 2024.


Noteworthy among the new markets tapped in 2023 were Mexico, Peru, and the Dominican Republic. ABPA's Director, Luis Rua, disclosed ongoing negotiations to explore additional markets, including potential entries into the United Kingdom and Malaysia.


Despite a decline in pork sales to China, the overall diversification strategy paid off. China's purchase of Brazilian pork decreased by 15.6% in 2023, standing at 388,600 tons. In contrast, exports to Hong Kong surged by 29.3% to 126,600 tonnes, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the Brazilian pork industry.


Other notable destinations contributing to this success included the Philippines (126,000 tons, +58.8%), Chile (87,500 tons, +44.2%), Singapore (64,300 tons, +16.2%), Uruguay (49,100 tons, +11.9%), Vietnam (47,800 tons, +4.8%), and Japan (40,300 tons, +46.9%).

This remarkable achievement underscores Brazil's growing prominence in the global pork market, showcasing the industry's ability to navigate challenges and seize opportunities for sustained growth. Key Export Highlights:

  • China Dynamics: China, despite purchasing 388,600 tons of Brazilian pork in 2023 (down 15.6% year-on-year), remained a significant player.

  • Hong Kong Surges: Hong Kong emerged as a notable destination, experiencing a remarkable 29.3% increase in pork imports, reaching 126,600 tonnes.

  • Philippine Momentum: The Philippines demonstrated robust demand, recording a substantial 58.8% surge, with imports totaling 126,000 tons.

  • Chile's Appetite: Chile displayed a hearty appetite for Brazilian pork, registering a commendable 44.2% increase, reaching 87,500 tons.

  • Singaporean Preference: Singapore showcased a discernible preference, importing 64,300 tons, reflecting a notable 16.2% rise.

  • Uruguayan Uptick: Uruguay witnessed an uptick in imports by 11.9%, totaling 49,100 tons.

  • Vietnam's Interest: Vietnam exhibited a notable interest, importing 47,800 tons, reflecting a 4.8% increase.

  • Japanese Inclination: Japan displayed a significant inclination, importing 40,300 tons, marking a substantial 46.9% rise.

  • Dominican Republic Inclusion: The Dominican Republic emerged as a strategic market, displaying a noteworthy inclination and importing a substantial volume of Brazilian pork.

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