Brazil-Exporters target Pacific rim countries.

Brazilian Beef Exporters Target Pacific Rim Countries

Despite being locked out of 56 pc of the worlds beef importing countries because of foot and mouth restrictions, including the lucrative markets of Korea and Japan, Brazil now accounts for 32 pc of the worlds beef exports.

Fernando Galletti de Queroz, CEO of Minerva SA, Brazils third biggest beef producer said, "Unlike Australia or New Zealand Brazil we are not protected by a coastline and viruses do not respect a land border".

Brazil is sending vets to improve the sanitary status of its neighbors and eradicate the problems at the source. There are 10 Latin American countries that share the borders with Brazil and by donating vaccinations and technology Brazil has already started on the giant project and hopes to eventually clear the whole continent.

Mr De Queriroz said this will open up new and lucrative markets to Brazil and work is now under way building roads to connect Brazil to the Pacific Ports, as at present all beef leaves the country via the Atlantic ports, making the shipping costs to Asia uncompetitive.

Brazil has 394 million hectares available for beef production and has no need to cut another tree, currently only 68 million hectares are being used to produce beef.

Brazil has long since realized the problems of feeding cattle on grain, only 1.3pc of the national herd is fattened in feedlots.

Brazil is now moving towards more intensive grazing systems, fueled by the endless water supply available in the region

Cross breeding programs are being encouraged especially between the predominant Nelore cattle and Angus and Simmental cattle.

Mr Queiroz said "We have barely scratched the surface of what is possible in terms of beef production".

In the last seven years the Brazilin Beef Powerhouse, hasld increased beef exports five fold.