China suspends beef imports from three Brazilian plants, Globo Rural reports (updated)

Jbs NV

21/05/2026 23:25

Updates with details, context in paragraphs 2-3

SAO PAULO, May 21 (Reuters) - China has suspended beef imports from three Brazilian meatpacking plants after identifying synthetic hormones used as veterinary drugs in cattle, which are prohibited in the Asian country, local outlet Globo Rural reported on Thursday.

The targeted plants belong to JBS JBS.N, the world's largest meatpacker, Prima Foods and Frialto. None of the firms replied to requests for comment.

The move comes as Brazil's agriculture ministry officials traveled to China this week for talks with their counterparts. The country has asked China to clear exports from 33 meatpacking plants as it seeks to boost trade with its top customer.

On Wednesday, industry group Abiec had said China authorized three plants to resume beef shipments following a 2025 suspension.

 (Reporting by Roberto Samora; Additional reporting and writing by Fernando Cardoso;)

 ((fernando.cardoso@thomsonreuters.com;))