Trump Raises 2026 Quota for Argentine Lean Beef by 80,000 Tons

Overview

• President Donald Trump issued a proclamation adding 80,000 metric tons to 2026 preferential imports, with shipments in four 20,000-ton tranches from Feb. 13 through Dec. 31.
• The increase applies to lean beef trimmings used in ground beef and lifts Argentina’s allowable total to about 100,000 tons, according to the Argentine Foreign Ministry.
• The step is tied to a new U.S.–Argentina trade and investment pact that reduces tariffs and expands market access, set to take effect after required 60-day internal notifications.
• U.S. ranchers and Republican lawmakers, including Sen. Deb Fischer, criticized the plan as harmful to domestic producers as herds sit at multi-decade lows following drought and limits on Mexican cattle imports.
• Economists say the added supply is unlikely to meaningfully lower retail prices, with benefits more likely accruing to processors; officials in Argentina cited an added value of roughly $800 million in product.