Israeli Agriculture Ministry Blocks Import of Brazilian Chicken, Reversing Approval for Baladi

The Israeli Ministry of Agriculture has reversed its previous approval and banned the import of chicken from Brazil, dealing a significant blow to Baladi Food Company. Baladi had invested 21 million shekels in a Brazilian poultry plant and expected to boost its revenues by 10%-15% annually through imports starting mid-2025. The decision was announced by Dr. Sergio Dolev, acting head of veterinary services, who removed Baladi's Brazilian plant from the list of approved exporters and stated that Brazil is currently not authorized to export chicken to Israel.

This reversal follows pressure from local Israeli poultry producers and a petition filed by the Israeli Poultry Breeders Association against both the Agriculture Ministry and Baladi. Although the Supreme Court had given the Chief Rabbinate 120 days to resolve kosher certification issues related to the imports, the ministry's decision effectively halts any imports without its approval. Baladi had previously secured approval from former veterinary services head Tamir Goshen, but the new ruling cancels that.

Baladi, controlled by Erez Dehabani, had planned to import mainly frozen, boneless chicken products such as schnitzels and chicken thighs. The company had anticipated becoming the exclusive importer from Brazil for 5 to 15 years, with expected revenues from this segment reaching 300-400 million shekels annually. The move comes amid a challenging market environment, including recent news that Israeli retailer Shufersal will import meat directly from South America, impacting Baladi's market share.

Baladi responded by stating the decision raises serious legal issues, contradicts prior professional rulings, and was made without giving the company a chance to present its case. The company intends to pursue legal remedies. The Agriculture Ministry emphasized that the decision was based on professional considerations regarding food safety and animal welfare, pending a thorough inspection of Brazil's production processes and regulatory oversight. The ministry affirmed its commitment to expanding import sources while maintaining strict safety standards.

Brazil is the world's largest chicken exporter, accounting for 38% of global exports, while Israel is among the largest importers per capita. The ministry's decision underscores the complex balance between supporting local producers, ensuring kosher certification, and safeguarding public health.