Brazil’s exports to Arab countries hit a 33-year record, and agro products prevail

Ana Mano

SAO PAULO 19 January (Reuters) – In 2022, exports from Brazil to the 22 Arab League of nations accounted for $17.7 billion, an unprecedented figure since 1989, according to the Arab-Brazil Chamber of Commerce.

This figure is 23.06% higher than the previous year. It places the Arab world as a major trade partner of South America, which does a lot business with China and Europe.

Agro products such as meat and grains are a major source of income for the Middle East and North Africa Arab countries. According to the Chamber, 71% of Brazil’s total exports to the region were made up of these goods.

Similar to previous years, the value of Brazilian poultry exports to League countries rose by 26.35%. This was despite attempts to increase national production in Middle East.

The average price paid by Arab countries for a tonne Brazilian chicken was $2,172 in 2022. This is higher than the $2,022 Brazil received from other clients, according to the Chamber.

These data highlight Brazil’s role as a halal supplier to the Arab World, where buyers pay more for meat made according to Muslim dietary standards. It also shows the impact of food inflation and strong import demand in the Middle East, North Africa and elsewhere.

The Chamber stated that global food inflation was exacerbated due to the pandemic and war in Ukraine. This conflict disrupted international grain and wheat trade and raised prices.

The Chamber stated that Brazil’s ability to produce large quantities of high-quality halal food products suggests it will continue to be a major chicken supplier, even though importing Arab countries invest in local capacity, which is subsidized by oil revenues. (Reporting by Ana Mano, Editing by Aurora Ellis).