The Brazilian Association of Animal Protein (ABPA) and Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil) capped a highly successful participation at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with projected export deals totaling US$1.4 billion over the next 12 months for Brazil’s poultry and egg sectors. This projection underscores the continued global demand for Brazilian animal protein, especially in strategic markets such as the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
Strong Business Transactions During the Fair
Over the five days of Gulfood — one of the world’s largest food and beverage trade exhibitions — Brazilian exporters conducted negotiations that resulted in about US$131.4 million in confirmed business deals. These engagements took place within ABPA’s dedicated 430 m² pavilion, designed to connect Brazilian producers with international importers, distributors, and foodservice partners.
The Brazilian pavilion also served as a showcase for the versatility and quality of animal protein products. Attendees were offered tastings of chicken and duck shawarma, as well as omelets, with more than 6,500 shawarmas and 1,000 omelets served during the fair — reinforcing Brazil’s image as a trusted and flavorful supplier.
Exporters Highlight Strategic Growth
ABPA’s president, Ricardo Santin, noted that the outcomes of Gulfood 2026 reflect global confidence in Brazilian animal protein products. The fair provided strategic opportunities to strengthen partnerships, expand dialogues with buyers, and reinforce Brazil’s standing as a predictable, safe supplier — particularly in halal markets where Brazil is currently a leading source of certified poultry products.
Brazil remains the world’s largest exporter of halal‑certified chicken, meeting stringent Islamic dietary, sanitary, and traceability standards that appeal to Muslim‑majority import markets.
Broader Context: Brazil’s Poultry Exports and Challenges
Brazil’s poultry industry continues to be a major force in global protein markets: recent data indicates that the UAE was the top destination for Brazilian chicken exports in January 2026, importing over 44,000 tons, an increase of 14 % from the previous year. South Africa and Saudi Arabia also ranked among leading markets.
The sector has faced health‑related export disruptions in recent years. For example, a 2025 bird flu outbreak temporarily halted exports to some regions following detection on a commercial farm in Rio Grande do Sul. However, subsequent control measures and regulatory updates helped restore Brazil’s avian influenza‑free status, enabling resumption of trade flows with key partners such as China and others.
Despite these challenges, Brazil’s poultry exports have shown resilience and strong performance, with shipment volumes at historic levels and continued demand across multiple continents.
Why Gulfood Matters for Brazilian Protein Exports
- Global Audience: Gulfood draws thousands of buyers, distributors, and decision‑makers from over 120 countries — creating an ideal platform to showcase Brazilian products.
- Halal Market Leadership: Brazil’s ability to meet halal certification requirements bolsters its appeal in the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeast Asia.
- Export Growth Opportunities: Networking at the fair often leads to contracts and partnerships significantly exceeding the immediate deals confirmed during the event.
FAQs: Brazilian Animal Protein Exports After Gulfood 2026
Q1. What is the ABPA projection after Gulfood 2026?
A: ABPA and ApexBrasil project around US$1.4 billion in new business for Brazilian poultry and egg exports over the next 12 months following Gulfood 2026.
Q2. How much business was confirmed during the fair itself?
A: Approximately US$131.4 million in business was confirmed across the event’s five days.
Q3. Which markets are key for Brazilian protein exports?
A: The UAE, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia are among the top destinations. China and other Asian markets are also important customers.
Q4. Is Brazil a major halal supplier?
A: Yes. Brazil is the world’s largest exporter of halal‑certified chicken meat, meeting stringent religious and sanitary standards.
Q5. Have health concerns like bird flu affected exports?
A: In 2025, an avian influenza outbreak temporarily affected export certifications to some regions, but control measures and regained status have helped reopen markets.
Sources & Further Reading
- Brazil leads delegation at Gulfood 2026, targeting over US$3.5 bn in deals – porcinews.com (latest overview of Brazil’s participation and broader export goals). Brazil leads delegation at Gulfood 2026 and targets US$3.5 bn
- UAE leads poultry imports from Brazil – DatamarNews (2026 shipment trends and export destinations). UAE leads poultry imports from Brazil data for 2026
- China reopens poultry imports from Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul – The Poultry Site (animal health and export status developments). China reopens poultry imports from Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul
- Brazil to restart poultry exports after avian flu free status – S&P Global (context on avian influenza and export recovery). Brazil to restart poultry exports following avian flu free declaration
- Brazil’s chicken exports hit second‑highest monthly level – The Poultry Site (export performance indicators). Brazil’s chicken exports hit second‑highest monthly level in 2025
