Mexico has made a significant decision to suspend chicken imports from Brazil, the world’s leading chicken meat exporter, due to an outbreak of Newcastle disease there. This move, implemented by the National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety and Quality (Senasica), is aimed at safeguarding the health of our poultry and ensuring the safety of food supplies. It covers all chicken meat, live birds, and fertile eggs, affecting both commercial imports and those brought by travelers.
Newcastle disease is a highly contagious virus among birds, known to cause serious health issues including respiratory problems and significant mortality rates. However, it is important to note that it poses no threat to human health. The outbreak was first identified at a turkey farm in southern Brazil, and subsequent confirmations have occurred in broiler chicken operations as well. Brazilian authorities have assured that they are acting swiftly to manage the situation, and the impacted facilities have been closed.
Brazil plays a crucial role in the global poultry market, accounting for approximately 30% of chicken exports. In 2025, Mexico ranked as Brazil’s seventh-largest buyer of poultry products. This is not the first time Mexico has taken such measures; imports were previously suspended in 2025 due to an outbreak of avian influenza.
Historically, outbreaks can lead to temporary declines in trade, as seen in 2024 when the last Newcastle disease outbreak reduced Brazil’s chicken exports by an estimated 100,000 metric tonnes. However, experts believe that with prompt and effective controls, this current situation should not have long-lasting effects on Brazil’s poultry sector.
As authorities work to navigate these health challenges, citizens can take reassurance in the steps being taken to protect food safety and animal health.