Brazilian timber exports shift toward Mexico as new U.S. tariffs reshape North American trade flows

Published on June 12, 2026 Time: loading...

Container ship docked at a port with towering gantry cranes at sunset, loading containers.

Trade patterns for Brazilian timber exports are undergoing a notable shift as Mexico has overtaken the United States as the leading North American destination for cargo moving through the Paranaguá Container Terminal during the first quarter of 2026. The change comes amid evolving trade conditions and the introduction of new U.S. tariffs that have encouraged exporters to redirect volumes across the region.

According to TCP, the operator of the Paranaguá Container Terminal, exports to North America totaled 231,900 metric tons during the first three months of the year. Timber remained the dominant commodity, accounting for approximately 110,000 metric tons of total shipments handled by the terminal.

Despite changes in destination markets, overall export activity continued to expand.

North American cargo volumes increased by 12 percent compared with the same period in 2025. The growth highlights the resilience of Brazilian exporters, who have adjusted commercial strategies to maintain access to key markets while responding to new trade dynamics.

Mexico emerged as the primary destination for exports moving through the terminal.

During the quarter, Mexican buyers received 130,400 metric tons of cargo from Paranaguá, surpassing the United States, which imported 93,000 metric tons. This development represents a significant change in regional trade flows, as the United States has traditionally been the largest market for many Brazilian exports routed through the terminal.

Timber played a major role in Mexico’s growth.

Approximately 55,000 metric tons of wood products were shipped to Mexico during the quarter. Additional demand was generated by other key commodities, including paper and chicken meat, which contributed 35,700 metric tons and 26,700 metric tons respectively.

Industry observers note that the shift reflects broader adjustments taking place throughout North American supply chains.

Exporters have increasingly sought opportunities in alternative markets as trade policies evolve. Rather than reducing shipments to the region, many companies have redirected cargo to destinations offering more favorable commercial conditions.

Fabio Mattos, Commercial Manager at TCP, stated that exporters have been required to adapt rapidly to changing international market conditions. According to Mattos, strong consumer demand continues to support trade opportunities across North America, even as tariff policies influence purchasing patterns and sourcing decisions.

The timber sector remains a critical component of this trade relationship.

Wood products continue to represent the largest export category moving from Brazil’s southern and southeastern regions through the Paranaguá Container Terminal. Demand from construction, manufacturing, and industrial sectors across North America has helped maintain shipment volumes despite changing market conditions.

Other export segments also recorded positive growth.

Beef shipments increased significantly during the quarter, rising 19 percent to 35,700 metric tons across North American destinations. Demand from the United States was particularly strong, with beef exports to that market climbing 26 percent to 31,700 metric tons.

Growth in refrigerated cargo has become increasingly important for terminal operations.

TCP reported that more than 1.034 million metric tons of beef were handled during 2025, representing a 53 percent increase over the previous year. The terminal attributes part of this performance to its extensive refrigerated container infrastructure, which includes 5,280 reefer plug connections and supports large-scale cold-chain logistics operations.

Canada also delivered strong growth during the quarter.

Although total volumes remained smaller than those recorded for Mexico and the United States, exports to Canada nearly doubled from 4,200 metric tons to 8,100 metric tons. This performance made Canada the fastest-growing North American destination served by the terminal during the reporting period.

Paper products led Canadian import growth.

Shipments increased fivefold to approximately 3,600 metric tons. Timber exports also recorded gains, while pork and beef shipments expanded as Canadian demand strengthened across several commodity categories.

On the import side, the United States continued to be the leading supplier of North American goods entering through Paranaguá.

Imports from the U.S. reached 30,600 metric tons during the quarter. Polyethylene, widely used in manufacturing applications, accounted for a significant share of inbound cargo. Sulfur imports, which support fertilizer production, also represented an important component of trade flows.

The terminal maintains extensive shipping connections throughout the region.

TCP currently operates six regular maritime services linking Paranaguá with ports located along the Atlantic coasts of the United States and Mexico. An additional route serves Mexico’s Pacific coast, providing exporters with greater flexibility and market access.

Logistics capabilities continue to play an important role in maintaining competitiveness.

According to Mattos, the terminal’s shipping network and storage infrastructure help ensure Brazilian exporters can respond efficiently to changing market conditions while maintaining reliable service levels for customers across North America.

The latest trade figures underscore the adaptability of Brazil’s export sector amid a rapidly evolving commercial environment. While tariff policies have altered traditional trade patterns, exporters have demonstrated an ability to identify alternative opportunities and sustain growth.

As market conditions continue to evolve, Mexico’s rising importance as a destination for Brazilian timber and other commodities could further reshape regional supply chains. For exporters, logistics providers, and forestry businesses, the first-quarter results highlight how strategic market diversification can help maintain momentum despite shifting international trade policies.