In January 2026, Brazilian beef exports to China increased by around 35% (in volume) year-on-year, consolidating the Asian country as the main destination for Brazilian beef, according to data released on 7 February by the Brazilian Beef Exporters Association (ABIEC).

China, Brazil's main trading partner since 2009, imported 123,200 tonnes of Brazilian beef in the first month of the year, equivalent to 46.6% of Brazil's total exports for the period and accounting for 46.8% of the value of shipments, according to the industry association.

Overall, Brazil's total beef exports totalled 264,000 tonnes in January, representing an annual increase of 26.1% and the best historical result for that month, driven by external demand, ABIEC said in a statement. According to the association, shipments of both fresh and processed beef generated total revenues of US$1.404 billion in January 2026, 40.2% higher than the same period last year.

(Source: XINHUA Portuguese, 9 February)