EU suspends Brazilian meat imports over sanitary concerns

The European Union suspended imports of Brazilian beef, chicken, eggs, and other poultry starting Thursday, citing insufficient sanitary guarantees and questioning antibiotic use in livestock production. The EU removed Brazil from its list of approved countries in May over antibiotic rules, a decision formalized in June. Brazilian entities are mobilizing to reverse the measure, while the EU says exports can resume once compliance is proven. The suspension affects strategic high-value exports, with beef sales to the EU totaling $562.2 million from January to July 2026. Audits for poultry and honey may conclude this year, but beef could face delays until 2028.