GTF, owner of the Canção Alimentos brand, indicated during the International Animal Protein Show (Siavs) that it intends to strengthen its presence in foreign trade and increase the volume of higher value-added products exported starting in 2027. The company’s announced goal is to raise the share of export sales in its total revenue from 35% to 40% as early as next year, without reducing supply to the domestic market.
According to data provided by the company, approximately 65% of production currently goes to domestic consumption, while 35% is destined for international clients. The plan involves shipping deboned cuts and processed items—which generate higher margins than fresh meat—as well as strengthening relationships with importers through long-term supply contracts.
"Our idea is to continue serving the markets where we are already established and to expand our product mix. We are increasingly working with deboned cuts, which add value and meet the demand of different markets," said CEO Rafael Tortola while speaking to journalists during the event.
Deboned thigh and drumstick cuts, historically sold to Japan and South Korea, are also finding markets elsewhere; according to the company, this helps diversify the portfolio and reduce exposure to regional price fluctuations. The company believes this move makes industrial planning more predictable while simultaneously strengthening the brand at points of sale.
"What we aim for is customer loyalty. We maintain a steady supply throughout the year, regardless of price fluctuations between markets. This approach strengthens the brand and allows us to capture greater value for our products," stated Tortola.
In the domestic market, GTF is also focusing on convenience-oriented items, expanding its line of individually quick-frozen (IQF) products and breaded goods suitable for air fryers. The executive explained that this shift aligns with the lifestyles of families seeking quick solutions without compromising on perceived quality.
Although the outlook for Brazilian chicken exports remains positive, the company notes that 2026 is shaping up to be a year of tighter margins. Rising logistics costs—driven primarily by Middle East conflicts that have made routes through the Strait of Hormuz more expensive—have compounded the impact of higher diesel and packaging prices.
"Brazil is expected to post record production and export figures, yet margins have tightened," the CEO reported.
For some shipments to the United Arab Emirates—the company's top destination in 2025—ocean freight costs rose by nearly US$400 per ton. While a portion of this cost was passed on to customers, it was not enough to fully offset the impact on expenses.
Given this scenario, GTF plans to take a more selective approach to investment in the coming years. The company intends to maintain current production levels but indicates that high interest rates and increased working capital costs make new plant expansion projects less attractive.
"I don't foresee a cut in production, but rather a slowdown in new investments. Companies will likely maintain current capacity and continue seeking new markets, albeit with greater caution," Tortola concluded.
Looking at the long term, the company believes that the competitiveness of Brazilian chicken and global demand will continue to drive sector growth, though with an increasing emphasis on industrial efficiency and portfolio differentiation.
Source: https://republicadaverdade.com.br/gtf-amplia-vendas-externas-para-40-da-receita-e-mantem-oferta-no-brasil/