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The video is horrific.  Turn it off if it upsets you.  Animal cruelty occurs everyday on live animal export ships

Large ships carrying live animals have been departing from the Port of São Sebastião in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, since January 2026. The export of live animals from Brazil is increasing, despite ongoing protests from animal rights activists. The animals are primarily destined for Turkey and Morocco . At least 17 shipments are planned between January and May.     

https://youtu.be/-UF3NMYAHUc?si=jhjKaf9UR5rvlOrx
Livestock exports from Brazil continue to grow  Video

Livestock exports are growing as international demand rises and exporters earn record amounts. In January 2026, the export value reached US$208.7 million. Between five and twenty thousand animals are shipped per shipment. The animals originate in places like Minas Gerais and are transported by truck to the port. There, they wait at holding stations until they are boarded for a long sea voyage.

Legal battle against exports

The growth in live cattle exports stands in stark contrast to a landmark court ruling in 2023. A federal judge in Brazil ruled that the export of live cattle should be banned because animals are sensitive creatures and suffer severely during (sea) transport. This ruling was internationally hailed as a milestone for animal welfare . 

This historic decision gave hope for a permanent halt to the export of live cattle. However, the situation is proving difficult to overcome. Legal proceedings are still ongoing, and exporters are continuing to trade as long as definitive enforcement is not forthcoming.

Unreliable transport ships

The concerns extend beyond the sheer number of animals. The ships used for transporting live cattle also pose significant problems. Many of these livestock transport vessels are old and poorly maintained. They are often not designed for long-term livestock transport.

For the animals, this means days or even weeks at sea under harsh conditions. Heat, ammonia fumes, exhaustion, and disease pose a constant threat. When engines fail or ships become stranded, the animals face additional challenges. They have nowhere to go and are completely dependent on human care.


Thousands of animals per transport

In 2025, approximately 150,000 animals were exported through São Sebastião. Early figures indicate this number will be higher in 2026. Every export of live livestock means thousands more animals leaving their habitat for a stressful journey.

According to a poll by the activist group Carga Viva Não , 84 percent of local residents oppose the export of live cattle through the Brazilian port. Demonstrations at the city council and in the port area continue. Activists are calling on prosecutors and judges to intervene.  

Animals at the centre of the debate

The core of the discussion remains animal welfare. The export of live animals is driven by economic interests, but for the animals, the transport means uncertainty, stress, and a high risk of injury or death.

The growing export of live cattle from Brazil demonstrates how vulnerable animals are to international trade. In a system where livestock primarily represent economic value, their welfare suffers. For thousands of animals annually, this isn't an abstract debate, but a harsh reality.

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©AnimalsToday.nl Savannah Drenth