Brazilian Quarter Horse: Tradition, Speed, and a World of Export Opportunities

Recognized as the most numerous horse breed in Brazil—and in the world—the Quarter Horse is a symbol of speed, endurance, and versatility. With over 500,000 animals registered in the country, Brazil holds a leading position in the breeding and genetic improvement of the breed, naturally attracting the interest of international buyers.

In recent years, the demand for international horse transport of this breed has grown, driven primarily by buyers seeking high-performance genetics for events like barrel racing, pole bending, roping, and sprint racing.

The Brazilian Quarter Horse on the International Stage

Brazil’s elite bloodlines, direct descendants of legendary sires such as First Down Dash, Three Bars, Corona Cartel, and Dash Ta Fame, attract attention from foreign buyers for their combination of strength, explosive muscle power, and functional balance. The consistent presence of Brazilian horses at international auctions and on podiums in competitions in Uruguay, the U.S., and Central America solidifies the country’s reputation in the industry.

In addition, Brazil has a highly professional equestrian competition infrastructure, particularly through events organized by ABQM (Brazilian Association of Quarter Horse Breeders), which contributes to the technical development of the breed and reinforces its global recognition.

Opportunities for Exporting Quarter Horses

There is a growing window of opportunity to export Quarter Horses, especially to countries with traditions in rural equestrian sports or those looking to introduce fast-paced functional events into their calendars. Key expanding markets include:

• United States – The main destination for Brazilian Quarter Horses, with high demand for genetics focused on barrel racing, roping, and reining;

• Mexico and Central America – Interested in genetics for rodeo and Western sports;

• United Arab Emirates and Europe – Niche buyers with high purchasing power and a focus on performance.

Brazilian genetics, with strong commercial and sporting appeal, has proven to be extremely competitive in these markets.

Challenges in Exporting Quarter Horses

Despite the promising outlook, exporting horses still presents significant challenges:

• Sanitary and documentation bureaucracy: Each country has specific documentation requirements that vary depending on the origin and destination of the animal;

• Cost and logistics: International horse transport involves substantial costs related to air freight, quarantine, lab testing, and technical inspections;

• Specialized veterinary monitoring: Ensuring the horse’s health and well-being throughout the journey is crucial for it to arrive in peak condition at its final destination.

Genesis 66, a Quarter Horse stallion, is considered one of the most important in Brazil and worldwide. He was sold at auction for R$160 million (approx. USD 30 million), highlighting the value of top-tier genetics

How FB Trading Can Help

With proven experience in international horse transportation, FB Trading offers complete solutions for breeders who want to enter foreign markets with safety and confidence.

From pre-shipment to post-quarantine, our team provides strategic and personalized support throughout the entire export process.

We have successfully shipped Quarter Horses to countries in South America and are fully prepared to meet demands from new markets—connecting Brazilian breeders to arenas and pastures around the world.