FAEP System argued that purchasing tilapia from other countries harms Brazilian and Paraná fish farming

Brazilian Government Extends Public Consultation on Tilapia Imports

BRAZIL
Monday, February 10, 2025, 08:00 (GMT + 9)

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (Mapa) announced on Friday (February 7) that it has extended the public consultation on tilapia imports by 60 days. Originally set to close on February 10, 2024, the new deadline for submitting suggestions and analyses is now April 10, reports Antonio Senkovski from Sistema Faep.

The extension follows requests from the Faep System and other industry entities, which argued that the initial consultation period was insufficient for meaningful debate, particularly given the significant role of the tilapia industry in Paraná's economy.

Tilapia's Economic Importance to Paraná

Paraná has long been Brazil’s leading tilapia producer, accounting for 36% of the national output, with 213,300 tons produced in 2023.

"Aquaculture continues to generate jobs and income for Paraná, with surplus production even supporting exports. We cannot penalize producers and agribusinesses that have made substantial investments and now face risks due to potential tilapia imports, which may introduce health and economic challenges," said Ágide Eduardo Meneguette, interim president of the Faep System.

Export Leadership

In addition to serving the domestic market, Paraná is also Brazil's largest tilapia exporter. In 2024, the state generated $35 million in exports, accounting for 64% of the country’s total tilapia exports.

Brazil has become the fourth-largest supplier of tilapia to the United States, with export volumes doubling annually, particularly for fresh fillets. Thanks to highly efficient logistics, tilapia from Paraná reaches U.S. retail shelves in under 36 hours.

Efforts to Block Imports

Beyond engaging with the federal government, the Faep System has launched additional initiatives to prevent tilapia imports. On February 3, the organization, along with private sector and government representatives, submitted a formal request to Governor Carlos Massa Junior, urging intervention to block potential imports.

The document emphasized the need for commercial support and health protections to ensure the sustainable growth of Paraná's tilapia industry.

Concerns Over Tilapia Imports

The issue of tilapia imports became a point of contention in December 2023 when Brazil imported 25,000 kilograms of tilapia from Vietnam. In response, the Faep System submitted a formal objection to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, arguing that such imports harm local fish farming, particularly in Paraná.

The entity emphasized the need to prioritize domestic production and protect the livelihoods of Brazilian producers from unfair foreign competition.

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