Argentina will remain as a central player in the global beef trade in 2026, with expected exports of 830.000 tonnes carcass weight equivalent (CWE), the second highest figure in history, according to the Annual Livestock and Products Report published by the Office of Agricultural Affairs in Buenos Aires
The report highlights that strong international prices and a more competitive peso are revitalizing Argentine packing house margins. China will continue to dominate as the main market, while shipments to the United States and the European Union will strengthen.
chinese market
According to the report, "Exports to China in 2026 will depend largely on two factors: 1) the final decision taken by the Chinese government based on its antidumping investigation ongoing investigation into beef imports, following a request from the local beef sector at the end of December 2024. The Chinese government recently announced it would extend the investigation until the end of November 2025 due to the complexity of the case. The outcome is unknown; and 2) in early August, the United States increased the Brazilian import tariffs for most products by 50% (10% + 40%), which directly affected their beef exports. As long as this level of tariffs persists, It is very likely that the United States will not import Brazilian beef and will instead purchase larger volumes of beef from other sources, such as Argentina.”
US lawsuit
The United States is projected to be the second most important market, with strong demand and in a geopolitical context that reinforces its relevance. According to the report, "The U.S. industry is struggling to fully meet its domestic demand for meat, presenting continued opportunities for suppliers able to meet U.S. quality and market requirements.".
Opportunities in Europe
For his part, heThe European Union "continues to show growing interest in premium cuts, especially those fed on grain, which represents new opportunities for Argentine exporters.", at a time when global regulatory and tariff changes create a favorable environment for diversifying markets and strengthening the international presence of Argentine meat.
As for prices, the Argentine exports of boneless meat In the first seven months of 2025 they reached 277.500 tonnes , for total value of USD 1.750 billion, with China as the main destination, followed by the United States and Israel. Exports of boneless chilled meat were lower in volume, but with an average FOB price more than double, with the EU as the main destination, followed by Chile and Israel.
With these indicators, Argentina reaffirms its strategic role in the global beef trade. The combination of competitive prices and strong international demand promises to keep the country at the forefront of the sector through 2026.
Aduana News is the first Argentine customs newspaper to launch its digital version. With 20 years of experience, its publications and initiatives aim to provide the most relevant knowledge on customs issues in order to contribute to safe trade in the region.
