Brazil protests EU suspension of its meat imports

Brazil expressed "deep concern" after the European Union's suspension of beef and poultry imports took effect Thursday, citing insufficient guarantees on antibiotic use in livestock farming. Brazilian ministries stated they have already provided necessary guarantees and expect a "rapid, objective, transparent, and science-based" solution, warning against potential protectionist motives. The dispute follows Brazil's removal in May from the EU's list of countries compliant with antibiotic rules. The suspension, which also covers eggs and honey, comes amid tensions over the EU-Mercosur trade agreement signed in January 2026. Brazil, the EU's second-largest beef supplier with over 92,000 tonnes exported in 2025, threatens retaliation through legal or agreement mechanisms.