Measure increases predictability and legal certainty for exporters and strengthens the prospects for growth in Brazilian sales, evaluates PEIXE BR
The Brazilian Fish Farming Association (PEIXE BR) celebrates the decision of the United States government to keep the main Brazilian tilapia products exported to the North American market outside the 25% surcharge provided for under Section 301. The measure comes into force on July 22, 2026 and preserves the competitiveness of the main product in the sector’s export basket.
According to the regulation, fresh tilapia fillet and whole tilapia, frozen or chilled, remain exempt from the additional tariff. Only frozen tilapia fillet was not included in the list of exceptions and will be subject to the 25% surcharge.
In the evaluation of PEIXE BR, the decision represents an achievement for national fish farming, especially because fresh fillet concentrates most of Brazilian tilapia exports to the United States. In recent years, the product has gained space in the North American market due to the quality, regularity of supply and the trust gained among importers.
“This decision is a great victory for Brazilian tilapia farming. Keeping the fresh fillet out of the surcharge preserves the competitiveness of the product and reinforces the recognition of the quality of tilapia produced in Brazil”, highlights the executive president of PEIXE BR, Francisco Medeiros.
According to the executive, the measure increases predictability for the sector and creates favorable conditions for the expansion of Brazilian exports. “Exporters now have greater legal certainty and a more favorable environment to expand the presence of the Brazilian product in the United States,” he says.
By ensuring the continuity of exports without the incidence of the additional tariff, the decision also opens space for new commercial advances.
“This achievement is the result of the joint work of Brazilian companies and North American partners, who played a fundamental role throughout the process. Brazil has all the conditions to expand its presence in this market”
said Medeiros.
