razil is on the brink of securing a landmark agreement to export pork offal to China, following high-level negotiations triggered by Chinese President Xi Jinping’s historic visit to the South American nation. While the protocols were not finalized during Xi’s visit, sources close to the matter have revealed that the discussions are in advanced stages and a deal is expected soon.
The export protocols, which also include provisions for fish, mark a significant step in strengthening agricultural trade ties between Brazil and China. This comes as China seeks to diversify its pork supply chain amid a trade dispute with European suppliers accused of market dumping.
China imported approximately $6 billion worth of pork products, including offal, in 2023. European suppliers, led by Spain, the Netherlands, and Denmark, dominated the market, collectively accounting for over $2.5 billion. If finalized, the agreement with Brazil could disrupt this dynamic and open a lucrative market for Brazilian exporters.
Opportunity in Offal Exports
Unlike in China, where items such as heart, liver, kidneys, lungs, brains, and tongue are highly prized, these products are not widely consumed in Brazil. By exporting offal, Brazilian producers could capitalize on untapped market potential and meet China’s growing demand for these specialty products.
“Offal is a unique opportunity for the Brazilian pork industry to expand its global footprint,” said a source familiar with the negotiations. “Finalizing this agreement could be transformative for the sector.”
Brazil’s Pork Industry Set for Growth
Brazil is already the fourth-largest pork exporter globally, shipping 1.2 million tons of pork in 2023. However, exports of offal accounted for just over 100,000 metric tons. The new protocols could significantly boost offal export volumes, providing a fresh revenue stream for the industry.
As Brazil continues to expand its agricultural trade with China, this agreement could pave the way for deeper collaborations in other sectors. For the pork industry, it represents an opportunity to diversify export portfolios and compete more aggressively in the Chinese market.
Stay tuned to Swine Web for updates on this developing story and its potential impact on the global pork industry.
