Brazilian beef gains access to Bosnia and Herzegovina

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – Bosnia and Herzegovina has officially opened its market to Brazilian beef after approving the International Health Certificate proposed by Brazil. 

The decision, welcomed by the Brazilian Association of Meat Exporting Industries (ABIEC), marks another step in expanding Brazil’s footprint in the European beef market.

With a population of 3.2 million, Bosnia and Herzegovina has a growing demand for beef, much of which is met through imports. 

Brazil, already exporting to over 150 countries, continues to expand its reach in global trade and strengthen its position in Europe.

ABIEC President Roberto Perosa described the development as a testament to the credibility of Brazilian beef in the international market. 

He attributed the success to the industry’s commitment to quality and strict adherence to health standards.

According to ABIEC, the authorization resulted from coordinated efforts involving the association, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and ApexBrasil. 

This collaboration between the government and the private sector has been essential in promoting Brazilian beef and increasing its competitiveness worldwide.

Expanding Global Presence

The approval by Bosnia and Herzegovina comes as Brazil secures additional market access elsewhere. 

In early February, reports indicated that Brazilian beef was set to enter Japan, with industry leaders working to finalize export agreements.

Roberto Perosa, who previously served as Brazil’s Secretary of Trade and International Relations at the Ministry of Agriculture, led negotiations with Japan. 

He traveled to the country on February 8, along with business representatives, to meet with Japan’s Minister of Agriculture and address remaining certification requirements.

Beyond Japan, Brazil is targeting Turkey, Vietnam, and South Korea—three markets that collectively account for 30% of global beef demand. 

Talks with Turkey and Vietnam are in advanced stages, while discussions with South Korea are moving more slowly. 

Despite this, Perosa remains confident that exports to these markets could begin soon.

Record Exports in 2024

Brazil’s beef exports hit a record high in 2024, with 2.89 million metric tons shipped, a 26% increase from the previous year. 

Data from the Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce, and Services (MDIC), compiled by ABIEC, show that these exports generated US$12.8 billion, a 22% rise from 2023.

The beef sector played a key role in Brazil’s trade surplus, which stood at US$74.6 billion for the year. 

China remained the largest buyer, importing 1.33 million metric tons worth US$6 billion.

The United States followed with 229,000 metric tons valued at US$1.35 billion. 

Other major buyers included the United Arab Emirates, purchasing 132,000 metric tons for US$604 million, the European Union with 82,300 metric tons at US$602 million, Chile with 110,000 metric tons for US$533 million, and Hong Kong with 116,000 metric tons valued at US$388 million.

Among Brazil’s top 15 beef importers, which together accounted for over 90% of total export revenue, all recorded an increase in shipments compared to the previous year.

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