Brazil warns EU over meat restrictions, hints at reciprocity

Brazil said the European Union lacked prior dialogue before imposing restrictions on Brazilian animal protein imports and warned it may apply reciprocity if no satisfactory solution is found. The joint statement from Brazil's Foreign Relations and Agriculture ministries came as EU restrictions on antimicrobial use took effect. Brazil expressed indignation over the lack of consultation, submitted documentation on meat chains, and agreed to an EU audit covering poultry and honey. The EU audit runs through Friday, with Brussels noting any reinstatement would initially cover only poultry and honey. Brazil warned restrictions could undermine Mercosul-EU trade gains, with the European market representing 5.8% of Brazilian beef exports.