The company, which is Brazil's third largest pork and poultry processor, confirmed the decision to halt sales, but did not elaborate.

The plant in the town of Xaxim, in Santa Catarina state, is identified by its SIF registration number 601, the post showed. The same plant had been blocked by Hong Kong earlier this month over coronavirus concerns.

The Brazilian ministry of agriculture did not have an immediate comment on Aurora's self suspension of the plant.

China has halted meat imports from Brazilian food processors including Marfrig, JBS SA and BRF SA over coronavirus concerns.

(Reporting by Ana Mano and Jake Spring; Editing by Richard Chang)