In a significant move, meat giant JBS is investing 150m reais ($28.3m) to double processing capacity at a beef plant in Brazil, its home market.
This investment at the Campo Grande II facility in Mato Grosso do Sul will increase daily processing capacity from 2,200 to 4,400 animals within a year, resulting in an increase in the number of employees from 2,300 to 4,600.
By expanding the facility, JBS aims to make it the largest beef plant in Latin America and one of the top three globally for the company. The announcement follows the approval of the Campo Grande II facility by the Chinese government on 12 March for beef export to China.
As part of Brazil’s meat industry, JBS’s plant was among the 38 approved by China, reflecting significant growth opportunities. Gilberto Tomazoni, JBS’s global CEO, highlighted the impact of these authorizations on Brazilian agribusiness, emphasizing growth, job creation, and income benefits for various sectors.
With the latest authorizations from China, the number of meat plants approved for export to China has reached 144, a significant increase from 106. Mato Grosso do Sul now has nine approved beef plants, up from three, showcasing the region’s growth.
Beef production in Mato Grosso do Sul has seen a substantial increase, with the capacity to ship 2.3m animals, a 392% surge from previous levels. The Campo Grande II unit, acquired by JBS in 2010, produces 440 tonnes of meat and 136 tonnes of burgers daily, contributing significantly to the company’s global operations.
Aside from China, the factory can export to various countries such as the US, Algeria, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Argentina, the EU, and Chile, expanding its market presence.
Earlier in March, JBS and Tyson Foods agreed to pay a combined $127m to settle a US lawsuit alleging wage fixing practices, showcasing the industry’s commitment to fair labor practices.
