China and Brazil launch sustainable beef initiative
China and Brazil are set to launch a pilot scheme to make beef production more sustainable, state media recently reported.
China's State Administration for Market Regulation is working with Brazilian institutions to improve supply chain transparency and establish a cross-border traceability platform, CCTV reported, without providing a timeline.
The agreement includes developing a unified global traceability standard to combat counterfeit beef. While Chinese companies have traditionally prioritised price over sustainability, there is growing interest in greener options due to policy signals and investor pressure. However, analysts warn that higher costs and logistical challenges may limit demand for sustainable goods.
Brazil's cattle ranching is said to contribute to 24% of global annual tropical deforestation and 10% of total global greenhouse gas emissions.
According to Chinese customs, China imported 2.74 million metric tons of beef in 2023, with over 40% of it coming from a South American supplier.
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