EU Suspends Brazilian Meat Imports Over Antibiotic Concerns

The European Commission suspended imports of meat from Brazil on Thursday, September 3, 2026, due to concerns over antibiotic use and Brasília's failure to provide sufficient guarantees that its products meet European standards.

The suspension, which resulted from a May vote by national experts, covers beef, poultry, eggs, and honey. Imports of some products could resume following an audit of poultry and honey, which is expected to conclude by the end of the week, although conclusions will take longer. No such guarantees have been provided for beef, which requires assurances covering the animals' entire life cycle.

Brazil was placed on an EU list of countries not adhering to rules on antibiotic use in animals in May. The suspension comes as Brazilian meat imports are a central point of opposition to the free trade agreement signed in January 2026 between the EU and Mercosur countries. EU farmers accuse Latin American producers of not complying with the bloc's phytosanitary and food safety standards, creating an unfair advantage.

Commission spokesperson Eva Hrncirova stated that rules banning antimicrobials for growth are in effect, and Brazil is not on the list of complying countries. The Irish Farmers' Association described the move as "" and suggested it would create opportunities for Irish beef. The association also called for the destruction of any stockpiled Brazilian beef within the EU.