In February 2025, the European Union (EU) announced significant changes to its environmental and agricultural policy, which directly impact Brazilian agribusiness. According to Roberto Araújo, member of the Scientific Council for Sustainable Agriculture (CCAS), the response to protests by European farmers resulted in the rollback of the implementation of the Farm to Fork strategy and the relaxation of several Green Deal targets. These adjustments create new opportunities for Brazil, which was facing increasing trade barriers due to environmental requirements.
The relaxation of environmental and traceability requirements could reduce difficulties for Brazilian exporters, providing more time to adapt to the new rules. In addition, there was a relaxation of targets for reducing pesticide use. Some strict requirements for environmental certifications were also eliminated. This will allow Brazil to expand its exports to the European market in a more competitive manner.
Furthermore, the pesticide reduction target was revoked. Similarly, there was a relaxation of land use rules within Europe itself. As a result, these changes may reduce pressure on European importers. Previously, they required stricter environmental certifications from foreign suppliers. In this context, this may benefit Brazilian producers who have not yet implemented environmental certifications or mechanisms to ensure the sustainable origin of their production,” he comments.
Brazil gains space in the European market
The protectionist stance of the United States under Donald Trump also influences the impact of these changes. By withdrawing from the Paris Agreement and starting a tariff war with the EU, Trump has prompted the bloc to reconsider its agricultural policies. This benefits countries like Brazil, which now has more room to expand its share of the European market and strengthen its global trade relations.
“Brazil, as a major player in global agribusiness, can take advantage of this new situation to expand its trade with Europe and consolidate its relations with China and other countries, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable agricultural production,” he concludes.
Source: Leonardo Gottems | agrolink
