In February 2026, Brazil exported a record 493,200 tons of chicken meat, worth $945.4 million. This represents a 5.3% increase in volume and an 8.6% increase in value compared to the same period in 2025.
According to the Brazilian Meat Association (ABPA), the country's chicken exports in February 2026 totaled 493,200 tons (including all fresh and processed products), equivalent to a value of US$945.4 million. This is the highest figure ever recorded for February, representing a 5.3% increase in volume and an 8.6% increase in value compared to the same period last year.
In the first two months of 2026, total export volume reached 952,300 tons, bringing in $1.819 billion. Compared to the first two months of 2025, the Brazilian poultry industry recorded a 4.5% increase in production and a 7.2% increase in revenue, setting a new record for the beginning of the year.
Developments in key markets
China maintained its position as Brazil's largest importer of chicken meat with 49,400 tons in February, although this was a slight decrease of 0.4% compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, many other markets recorded explosive growth, particularly the European Union and Japan.
| Market | Weight (tons) | Variation (%) |
|---|---|---|
| United Arab Emirates | 44,000 | +13.4% |
| Japan | 38,200 | +38.0% |
| Saudi Arabia | 33,800 | +7.3% |
| South Africa | 31,300 | +27.6% |
| European Union | 30.100 | +46.3% |
| Philippines | 30,000 | +29.2% |
| Singapore | 15,400 | +20.1% |
Conversely, exports to the Mexican market decreased significantly by 24.3%, reaching only 15,800 tons. Markets such as South Korea remained stable with a slight growth of 2.4%.
Production performance by region
By region, the state of Paraná continued to hold the leading position with exports of 211,000 tons in February 2026, a 13.3% increase compared to the same period in 2025. This was followed by the state of Santa Catarina with 104,600 tons (down 1.9%) and Rio Grande do Sul with 61,100 tons (down 12.47%). São Paulo and Goiás achieved growth rates of 6.4% and 19.36%, respectively.
New opportunities in the Solomon Islands market.
Notably, the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock announced that the country has gained access to the Solomon Islands market. With a population of approximately 830,000, this is a country heavily reliant on imported food due to limited domestic chicken production (around 4,000 tons per year).
Data from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) indicates that the Solomon Islands' demand for imported chicken meat is projected to reach approximately US$10.8 million in 2024, primarily from Australia and the United States. Entering this market confirms Brazil's position as a crucial strategic partner in supporting global food security, with its superior hygiene standards and supply capabilities.