Banco do Brasil believes that meatpacking companies listed on B3 (the Brazilian stock exchange) can redirect part of their exports from the United States to other countries. This is because the cost of Brazilian slaughter cattle in US dollars remains competitive compared to major global producers (Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Paraguay, the US, the EU, and Australia).
“In addition, Brazil is a global reference in animal health, having been recognized as free from foot-and-mouth disease by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), and is authorized to export beef to more than 150 countries,” the bank said in a report to clients.
Until the tariffs come into effect, meatpacking plants extended their slaughter programs, and some units even declared collective vacations. Marfrig, for example, announced it would suspend production at its Várzea Grande industrial complex in Mato Grosso, destined for the US, starting July 17, 2025.
