Following extensive audit missions by Mexican authorities earlier this year, MAPA received a statement from Mexican officials to give the green light for further export licences.
The licensing represents a significant move for Brazil’s poultry sector as it more than doubles the number of Brazilian companies able to export to Mexico – a total of 46.
“The expectation is that the authorisation of new plants will allow the resumption of the expansion trend in Brazilian exports of chicken meat to Mexico,” said MAPA’s secretary for international relations Odilson Silva.
“In data from January to October 2018, shipments totalled US$138 million, compared to US$185 million in 2017.”
Mexico has also been in discussions with Brazilian authorities to increase the number of businesses authorised to export thermo-processed beef, which is expected to be concluded by the end of 2018.
According to MAPA, Mexico produces 3.9 million tonnes of chicken a year and imports 640,000 tonnes, or 13.4% of its consumption. The main suppliers are the US, Brazil and Chile.