Lula Asks Brussels to Save Brazil Chicken Exports

Brazil · TRADE

The European Union’s ban on Brazilian poultry takes effect on 3 September 2026, but a scheduled audit may offer a path back.

Brazil chicken exports to the European Union are days from being cut off. President Lula has asked Brussels to restore Brazil to its export list for chicken and honey, provisionally.

The request came in a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, sent on 31 July 2026.

The Letter and Its Request

Lula wrote to von der Leyen on 31 July 2026. He asked that Brazil be restored, provisionally, to the EU list for chicken and honey.

This would last until EU audits of Brazil’s antimicrobial control system are complete. The letter was reported by Estãdao on 22 August 2026.

It seeks a temporary fix while the audits are pending.

Why the EU Delisted Brazil

The European Union removed Brazil from its list of third countries authorised to export products of animal origin. The reason was non-compliance with rules on antimicrobial growth promoters and related official controls.

Antimicrobial growth promoters are antibiotics given to healthy farm animals to make them grow faster. The EU banned this practice because it helps breed drug-resistant bacteria.

Timeline of the Ban

An EU committee made the delisting decision on 12 May 2026. The ban takes effect on 3 September 2026.

Until then, Brazil remains delisted, and the ban will apply as scheduled. Therefore, the window for action is narrow.

The Scheduled Audit

The Commission scheduled an audit in Brazil at the end of August 2026 to assess compliance on antimicrobial controls. It indicated that if results are positive, it may amend the list to restore Brazil’s eligibility, particularly for poultry and honey.

In addition, this audit could provide a path forward. However, no restoration has been agreed yet.

Impact on Brazil Chicken Exports

Brazil is one of the world’s largest exporters of chicken. Therefore, the ban could hit Brazil chicken exports significantly.

The letter aims to prevent a disruption in trade. Still, the outcome depends on the audit results.

Sanitary Measure, Not Trade Suspension

The ban is applied as a sanitary and animal health measure under EU law. It is not a suspension of the Mercosur and EU trade agreement.

That agreement remains formally in place. Meanwhile, market access for Brazilian animal products is blocked on health grounds.

What Happens Next

The audit at the end of August 2026 is the next key step. If results are positive, the EU may restore Brazil’s eligibility.

Even so, the ban takes effect on 3 September 2026 unless the list is amended before then. The letter seeks a provisional restoration to bridge this gap.

Broader Context for Brazil Chicken Exports

Brazil chicken exports are a major part of its agricultural trade. This dispute with the EU adds uncertainty for producers.

As a result, the government is seeking a diplomatic solution. The letter to Brussels is part of that effort.

Looking Ahead

The coming weeks will be crucial for Brazil chicken exports. The audit results will determine whether the EU changes its position.

In short, the ball is in Brussels’ court. The response to Lula’s letter and the audit will shape the future of this trade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the EU ban Brazilian chicken?

The EU removed Brazil from its list of authorised exporters because of non-compliance with rules on antimicrobial growth promoters. These are antibiotics given to healthy animals to speed growth, which the EU bans to prevent drug-resistant bacteria.

When does the ban take effect?

The ban takes effect on 3 September 2026. The EU committee made the decision on 12 May 2026.

What is Lula asking for?

Lula asked that Brazil be restored provisionally to the EU list until audits are complete. He wrote to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on 31 July 2026.

Is the Mercosur-EU trade agreement suspended?

No, the agreement remains formally in place. The ban is a sanitary measure, not a trade suspension.

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