Brazilian meat firm JBS is set to strengthen its position in the pork segment with the acquisition of local pork processor Adelle Indústria de Alimentos for BRL235m ($59.7m).

As part of the agreement, JBS’ controlled entity Seara Alimentos will acquire the pork processing plant, including its integration system located in the city of Seberi and the state of Rio Grande do Sul.

Adelle Food Industry is engaged in the production of a wide range of meat products including offals, pork cuts and other meat products.

The facility owned by the Adelle Food Industry has a capacity of 2,000 heads per shift.

“The facility owned by the Adelle Food Industry has a capacity of 2,000 heads per shift.”

Seara will pay BRL80m ($20.2m) through a transfer of the Frederico Refrigerated Pork Plant, which is located in the city of Frederico Westphalen and BRL115m ($29.1m) through debt assumption, as well as BRL40m ($10m) in local currency.

Completion of the deal is subject to the approval of the Brazilian Antitrust Authority, amongst other usual conditions.

In a separate development, JBS told Reuters that Seara became the first company in Brazil that is authorised by India to sell chicken products in the country.

The company’s first shipment of chicken thighs and leg quarters is scheduled to take place in the next few weeks. JBS did not disclose the shipment volumes.

In February, JBS unveiled plans to expand its Plumrose USA prepared foods business in Ottumwa, Iowa, to enhance bacon and slicing capacities.

The move will allow the company to meet the increasing demand from foodservice and retail customers for its bacon products.