The Brazilian Pet Industry Association (Abinpet) announced that new U.S. import tariffs on Brazilian pet food products took effect August 6, 2025, representing an escalation in trade restrictions that could impact Brazilian pet food companies entering the North American market.
The tariff increase affects dog and cat food imports from Brazil, which previously faced an average 10% duty rate depending on product type and origin. Under the new directive, these products now carry a 50% tariff, plus Value Added Tax (VAT), creating what Abinpet described as "very difficult and unviable" conditions for most Brazilian exporters.
"The measure will directly affect the competitiveness of Brazilian pet products in the North American market," Abinpet stated in its announcement to member companies. The association recommended that Brazilian exporters carefully monitor shipments currently in transit and review existing contracts with U.S. distributors and importers to avoid operational or commercial losses.
Abinpet indicated it will continue monitoring diplomatic and legal developments around the tariff decision and will update the industry on potential exceptions, compensation measures, or actions through multilateral trade organizations. The association noted that some products may be exempt from the tariff increase, directing companies to check official exemption lists to determine their products' status.
