Two cases of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE, or 'mad cow' disease) in Brazil have led to the suspension of animal protein purchases from the country by several countries, including China, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, and Russia. These countries account for 55% of Brazil's protein exports. Despite assurances from the World Organization for Animal Health, these countries have imposed bans, with China likely to extend the ban. The impact on exports is significant, with China receiving 48% of Brazil's meat shipments. However, not all countries have imposed bans, with Hong Kong, the US, Chile, the Philippines, and the UAE still accepting Brazilian meat.