China suspends beef imports from three Brazilian plants
JBS among firms cited over banned synthetic hormones in cattle
22 May 2026
1 minute read
By: 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, Reuters reported, citing a report from local outlet Globo Rural on Thursday.
The targeted plants belong to JBS, 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 authorised three plants to resume beef shipments following a 2025 suspension.
