In a recent development that underscores the growing partnership between Brazil and South Africa in the animal protein industry, the Brazilian Animal Protein Association (ABPA) welcomed the announcement from Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock authorizing new animal protein plants for export to South Africa. This significant move includes thirteen poultry slaughterhouses and five pork slaughterhouses, positioning Brazil to expand its footprint in South Africa’s meat market and support the country’s food security goals.
Currently, South Africa is Brazil’s fifth-largest destination for chicken meat exports. Between January and October 2024, Brazil exported approximately 276,500 tons of chicken to South Africa, generating revenue of around US$154 million. The longstanding trade relationship, spanning over two decades, is built on South Africa’s demand for imported animal protein, especially for processed products, which complements Brazil’s strategy to support the production capacity of its trade partners. Brazil’s robust and established animal protein industry has enabled it to meet the quality and volume requirements of markets worldwide, with South Africa remaining a key partner.
Ricardo Santin, president of the ABPA, commended the Ministry’s Agricultural Defense Secretary Carlos Goulart, International Relations Secretary Luis Rua, and the entire ministerial team for their contributions to obtaining the new export permits. For Brazil’s poultry industry, which views South Africa as a crucial market for future expansion, Santin called the accomplishment a “step forward.” Brazil’s hog and poultry industries are well-positioned to satisfy South Africa’s demand for high-quality meat products with the addition of new, qualified plants, guaranteeing a steady supply chain that supports regional food security.
In addition to poultry, Brazil wants to increase its exports of pork to South Africa, a market with enormous development potential. A growing population and rising consumption needs have been the main drivers of South Africa’s steady increase in demand for animal protein. Brazil has the chance to strengthen its position in the South African market and expand its product line by exporting pork. Although hog exports are not as well-known as chicken in the South African market, ABPA believes that the new permissions will help them develop as South African consumers look for more options for reasonably priced, high-quality protein sources.
Brazil’s approach to international trade in animal protein has long focused on building strong, mutually beneficial relationships with importing countries. By ensuring high standards and focusing on quality, Brazil has become one of the world’s leading exporters of animal protein. Its collaborative approach is evident in its trade with South Africa, where Brazil’s exports play a supporting role to local production rather than displacing it. This commitment to complementing South African industry needs aligns with South Africa’s objectives for food security and offers the Brazilian animal protein sector a stable market with high demand for both processed and fresh products.
Support from ABPA for the Ministry’s accomplishments emphasizes how crucial government collaborations are to increasing export potential and opening up new markets for Brazilian goods. In order to address South Africa’s increasing need for animal protein, ABPA looks forward to deeper relationships and further developments in trade partnerships, utilizing Brazil’s high standards and wealth of industrial knowledge. Brazil will benefit from fresh economic prospects as well as a steady supply of high-quality meat for South African consumers.
