Chicken exports from January to March totaled 1.387 million tonnes, a 13.7% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Revenue for the quarter rose 20.8% to US$2.587 billion. In March alone, Brazil exported 476,000 tonnes of chicken, up 13.8% year-on-year, generating US$889.9 million, an 18.5% increase. Ricardo Santin, president of the Brazilian Animal Protein Association (ABPA), noted: “Global outbreaks of avian influenza have heightened the need for reliable suppliers, and Brazil is responding with the necessary volume and quality. China remains a major buyer, but we’re also seeing consistent demand from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and other markets.”
Egg exports surged to 8,654 tonnes in the first quarter, a 97.2% rise from 2024, with revenues climbing 116.1% to US$17.77 million. March saw 3,770 tonnes shipped, a 342.2% increase, yielding US$8.65 million, up 383% year-on-year. Santin explained: “This month, we saw the tangible impact of the United States opening its market to thermally processed eggs from Brazil. Given that exports account for only around 1% of overall production, we can meet external demand without compromising domestic availability.”
Exports of avian genetic material, such as fertile eggs and day-old chicks, generated US$62 million in the first quarter, up 7.6% from 2024, despite a 27.8% drop in volume to 5,668 tonnes. In March, revenue reached US$22.3 million, an 18.4% increase, while volumes fell 35.1% to 1,777 tonnes. Santin remarked: “We’ve observed growing interest from neighbouring countries in day-old chicks to boost their production. This consistent trend since mid-2024 reinforces global confidence in Brazilian genetics, though volumes may fluctuate monthly.”
Global supply concerns, particularly due to avian influenza, have strengthened Brazil’s position as a key poultry supplier. New market openings, such as the U.S. for processed eggs and Mexico for chicken products, support expectations of continued growth. Analysts predict Brazil’s poultry sector will maintain strong performance, driven by steady demand from major markets like China and Mexico, as well as emerging opportunities in other regions.
