EU Suspends Brazilian Meat Imports Over Antibiotic Concerns

The European Union has suspended imports of Brazilian meat, poultry, eggs, and honey over concerns about antibiotic use in livestock, effective Thursday. Brazil, the world's largest beef exporter, shipped about 108,000 tons of beef worth $1 billion to the EU in 2025. The EU announced the suspension Tuesday, arguing Brazil failed to guarantee its livestock production meets standards against antibiotic growth promoters. Brazilian industry groups criticized the move, saying it ignores the quality of exports to 170 countries and harms legitimate trade benefits. The suspension follows the EU's May warning and takes effect as the EU-Mercosur trade agreement remains provisional. An economist called the measure political, predicting further EU actions to protect its agribusiness from Mercosur competition.