China approves 13 more Brazilian meat plants

China has approved 13 more Brazilian meat plants for exports, the second round of authorizations this month as the Asian country's pork population plummets from African Swine Fever (ASF).

Of the 13 plants, five are beef producers, five are pork producers and three are poultry producers, Brazil's Agriculture Ministry said today, quoting the Chinese sanitary department (GACC). The plants are located in the states of Rio Grande do Sul, Mato Grosso do Sul, Sao Paulo, Mato Grosso, Goias, and Parana.

Brazil is a major global exporter of meat, taking the top spot for poultry and beef exports and the fourth place for pork.

China previously authorized seven pork plants in Santa Catarina to export. The approvals occurred after Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro's official visit to the Asian country in late October and amid the ASF outbreak, which could lead to a 41pc reduction in the national pig herd, according to the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (Mara).

Brazil's pork and poultry industry association (ABPA) celebrated the news and highlighted the importance China has achieved this year for Brazilian exports.

Between January-October, China imported 183,100 metric tonnes (t) of pork, 40pc up year on year, while bought 444,700t of poultry (+22pc), appearing as the main importer of Brazil's proteins, ABPA said.

China's authorization comes one day after Saudi Arabia also approved eight new Brazilian beef plants for exports. Units are located in Para, Sao Paulo, Maranhao, Minas Gerais, and Rondonia.

By José Roberto Gomes