Brazil Seeks Permanent Access to Mexican Meat Market

The Brazilian business sector has called for permanent access to the Mexican meat market. Until now, imports of meat products from the South American country have only occurred through extraordinary presidential decrees such as PACIC. 

Since the establishment of PACIC in Mexico, as a strategy imposed by the federal government to control food inflation, Brazil has benefited from a unilateral opening that has eliminated tariffs on certain imports of chicken, pork, and beef. In 2023, Brazil exported to Mexico 173,321t of chicken, 28,601t of pork, 16,056t of turkey, and 83,359t of beef. Moreover, in 2022, Brazilian exports of agricultural products to Mexico grew by 61.2%, reaching US$1.7 billion in sales.

However, the Brazilian meat sector has expressed concerns about the uncertainty surrounding the continuation of trade with Mexico, as the tariff suspension measure that is part of PACIC was authorized through a decree that is not automatically renewed, but rather extended—sometimes with modifications—which may cease to occur at any of the established periodic expirations. “Stability is beneficial for both Brazil and Mexico because every December we have to hope that PACIC will be renewed so that trade flows can be maintained,” said Ricardo Santin, Executive Director, Brazilian Animal Protein Association (ABPA).

ABPA represents 67 agribusiness companies that produce and export goods related to animal protein, accounting for 90% of poultry production, 85% of pork production, and 95% of sector exports in Brazil. Santin suggested that the reduction of tariffs for their sector could be compensated with an opening for Mexican products in the Brazilian market. “If Mexico lowers its tariffs or makes PACIC a permanent policy, whether through a permanent quota or a reduction of tariffs, we are prepared to support and strengthen our trade relationship." Santin said.

Mexico and Brazil have developed a robust trade relationship over the years, supported by bilateral cooperation. As part of the Dual Year Mexico-Brazil 2024 celebrations, held in July, the countries approved the implementation of two projects led by SENASICA and INIFAP, related to biofuel production and pest control, as reported by MBN. 

In addition to meat imports, other relevant Brazilian export products to Mexico include corn, soybeans, rice, eggs, and coffee. Meanwhile, sales of food products to Brazil primarily include roasted coffee, vegetables, juices, and plant extracts, as well as plant parts and seeds. Furthermore, the Mexican government seeks to progressively strengthen the export of products such as avocados, lemons, and asparagus to Brazil. 

Globally, Brazil is ranked as the third-largest exporter of agricultural and food products in the world and the leading exporter of boneless beef and chicken, according to FAO data. Mexico is the main destination for the country’s sales in Latin America.