The start of 2026 marks a structural turning point for the industry. While 2025 was a year of volume records, 2026 is becoming the year of market diversification and logistical precision.
Beef: Female Retention and Export Records
Brazil has entered a “female retention” phase of the cattle cycle. This strategic move to rebuild herds means that while domestic production might see a slight structural contraction to 10.5 million tons, our export capacity is hitting new heights.
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New Export Record: Experts project a staggering 4.4 million tons in total beef exports for 2026.
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USA Expansion: The United States is now Brazil’s second-largest beef market. Projections show the U.S. importing 400,000 tons this year—a massive jump from 270,000 tons in 2025—to offset their own domestic supply shortages.
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Market Shift: While China remains a key partner, new authorizations for Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam are creating a more balanced and secure export portfolio.
Chicken: Steady Growth and Biosecurity
The Brazilian poultry sector remains the world’s most stable “Sanitary Fortress.”
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Production Outlook: Production is forecast to grow by 3.8% in 2026, reaching 14.73 million tonnes.
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Global Benchmark: Brazil continues to supply approximately 38% of the world’s chicken exports. With our status as 100% free of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in commercial plants, we remain the only high-volume, low-risk option for major importers.
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UAE Gateway: The UAE is not just a destination but a pivot point. With Muslim consumer spending on food expected to reach $1.5 trillion globally by the end of 2026, our SIF-certified, Halal-compliant shipments through Dubai are more critical than ever.
Pork: The “Philippines First” Strategy
Brazil has firmly held its position as the world’s third-largest pork exporter.
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The Record Target: Exports are forecast to hit a record 1.545 million tonnes this year.
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Southeast Asia Demand: The Philippines remains our top destination, with demand growing by 7% as they continue to navigate local supply challenges.
️ Logistics Focus: Moegão Project Final Countdown
Efficiency at the Port of Paranaguá is about to take a quantum leap.
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February Completion: As of late January, the Moegão Project is over 80% complete. Final mechanical and electrical tests are underway, with full operations scheduled to begin in early February 2026.
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Unloading Power: The facility will soon handle 900 railcars per day, tripling the ship loading speed at the Eastern Export Corridor (Corex) to 8,000 tonnes per hour.
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The Result: For Global Exporter BR clients, this means the fastest turnaround times in the history of Brazilian agribusiness.
Culinary Highlight: The “Air Fryer” Boom in Brazil
A unique trend in 2026 is the surge in “Value-Added” exports. With 10% of Brazilian chicken exports now consisting of pre-seasoned or “ready-to-cook” cuts, the global obsession with air-fried proteins is driving demand for:
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Brazilian Saffron Wings: A vibrant, high-protein snack that mirrors the flavors of traditional Galinhada.
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Halal-Certified Nuggets: Clean-label, whole-muscle poultry snacks are seeing double-digit growth in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
❓ 2026 Industry FAQ
1. Is Brazilian beef production decreasing in 2026? Total production is seeing a planned 5-6% dip as producers retain females to rebuild the cattle herd, but exports are expected to hit a record 4.4 million tons.
2. What is the status of the Moegão Project? It is in its final phase of automation and safety testing, with full operations launching in February 2026.
3. Why is the US buying more Brazilian beef? Lower domestic supply in the US and Canada has turned North America into a high-growth market for Brazil’s SIF-certified lean beef.
4. Is Brazil still Bird Flu free? Yes. Brazil maintains its status as 100% free of HPAI in commercial flocks, ensuring no trade disruptions for our partners.
Connect with Global Exporter BR:
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WhatsApp: +55 61 4042-7234
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Email: info@globalexporter-br.com
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Website: www.globalexporter-br.com
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