China and Brazil Launch Beef Traceability Pilot Program

China and Brazil have initiated a pilot program to trace the cross-border movement of beef, aiming to enhance the transparency and sustainability of their beef trade. This initiative follows recent bilateral consultations between GS1 China and Brazilian authorities, as reported by China Media Group (CMG).

The program focuses on establishing a globally unified beef traceability platform to ensure the transparency of the beef supply chain and enhance full-chain visibility. Key stakeholders in these consultations included experts in beef trade, food safety traceability, and environmental protection from both nations.

Both countries agreed that unified global standards are crucial for effective cross-border food traceability. These standards play a vital role in combating counterfeit beef, ensuring domestic food safety, and advancing smart supervision. The consultations represent a significant step forward in beef trade between China and Brazil, paving the way for deeper cooperation.

Zhou Zhiwei, an expert on Latin American studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, emphasized that as the largest buyer of Brazilian beef, China has the right to demand that Brazilian exports adhere to specific health, safety, and quality standards. The traceability scheme aims to meet these requirements. Furthermore, the system is expected to support Brazil’s efforts in promoting green agriculture.

In March, China resumed imports of Brazilian beef following a brief suspension due to a case of mad cow disease. China, as the world’s largest importer of beef, sources a significant portion of its imports from Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. In 2023, China imported 2.74 million tons of beef, with over 40 percent coming from Brazil, according to Chinese customs data.

Beef production is a significant environmental concern, particularly in Brazil, where it is associated with deforestation and high greenhouse gas emissions. The pilot program aims to address these sustainability issues by ensuring transparent and accountable beef supply chains. While Chinese companies have traditionally prioritized cost over sustainability, there is a growing interest in greener supply chains, driven by policy directives and investor pressures.

However, experts warn that higher costs and logistical challenges might limit the demand for sustainably produced beef. Despite these challenges, the traceability initiative marks a significant step towards more sustainable beef trade practices between China and Brazil.