Uruguayan Minister Promotes Dairy Exports at Brazilian Agro Show
Source: DairyNews.today
Uruguayan Minister of Agriculture and Food, Fernando Mattos, took the opportunity at the Expointer agro show in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, to reinforce Uruguay's role as a reliable and long-standing supplier of dairy products to the Brazilian market. Speaking to Correio do Povo during his visit, Minister Mattos emphasized that Uruguay is a key trade partner within the Mercosur framework and should not be perceived as a threat to Brazil’s domestic dairy industry.
"Uruguay is a net exporter of dairy produce and has been a reliable, serious, and main supplier for the Brazilian market for years. We cannot be seen as predators or a threat to Brazil; we are good trade partners," stated Mattos, addressing recent tensions arising from Brazil’s restrictions on Uruguayan dairy imports.
In 2023, Brazil accounted for nearly 40% of Uruguay's dairy exports. However, this year has seen a 30% decline in export volume due to the aforementioned restrictions. Minister Mattos firmly rejected the characterization of Uruguayan dairy exports as "predatory," asserting the country’s commitment to maintaining its reputation as a dependable supplier.
Uruguay's presence at Expointer 2024 was marked by a significant pavilion, symbolizing the country's solidarity with the farmers of Rio Grande do Sul, who faced severe flooding that devastated crops and livestock earlier this year. The state, along with Minas Gerais, has a powerful dairy farming lobby that frequently voices concerns over dairy imports from Uruguay, creating diplomatic challenges for Montevideo.
"Uruguay’s participation here is a clear expression of our commitment to production, tourism, and investment. Despite time constraints, we made a political decision to be present and show our support," added Mattos, who was accompanied by Marion Blanco, Uruguay’s Consul General in Porto Alegre.
The Expointer show, held annually in Esteio near Porto Alegre, is the largest agricultural event in southern Brazil, showcasing advancements in agriculture, cattle farming, and farming equipment. Uruguay's engagement at this event underscores its strategic interest in maintaining strong trade relations with Brazil, particularly in the dairy sector.
Last year, Uruguay's dairy exports totaled $855 million, with powdered milk accounting for $550 million of that figure. Brazil remains a significant market for Uruguayan dairy products, including cheese, despite the current trade tensions. Minister Mattos’s visit and statements at Expointer aim to reinforce Uruguay's position as a vital and cooperative partner in the regional dairy trade.
In 2023, Brazil accounted for nearly 40% of Uruguay's dairy exports. However, this year has seen a 30% decline in export volume due to the aforementioned restrictions. Minister Mattos firmly rejected the characterization of Uruguayan dairy exports as "predatory," asserting the country’s commitment to maintaining its reputation as a dependable supplier.
Uruguay's presence at Expointer 2024 was marked by a significant pavilion, symbolizing the country's solidarity with the farmers of Rio Grande do Sul, who faced severe flooding that devastated crops and livestock earlier this year. The state, along with Minas Gerais, has a powerful dairy farming lobby that frequently voices concerns over dairy imports from Uruguay, creating diplomatic challenges for Montevideo.
"Uruguay’s participation here is a clear expression of our commitment to production, tourism, and investment. Despite time constraints, we made a political decision to be present and show our support," added Mattos, who was accompanied by Marion Blanco, Uruguay’s Consul General in Porto Alegre.
The Expointer show, held annually in Esteio near Porto Alegre, is the largest agricultural event in southern Brazil, showcasing advancements in agriculture, cattle farming, and farming equipment. Uruguay's engagement at this event underscores its strategic interest in maintaining strong trade relations with Brazil, particularly in the dairy sector.
Last year, Uruguay's dairy exports totaled $855 million, with powdered milk accounting for $550 million of that figure. Brazil remains a significant market for Uruguayan dairy products, including cheese, despite the current trade tensions. Minister Mattos’s visit and statements at Expointer aim to reinforce Uruguay's position as a vital and cooperative partner in the regional dairy trade.
