Overview
- Argentina and the United States formalized a framework that the industry says could lift the duty‑free beef quota toward 80,000 tonnes, with details still to be negotiated and approved.
- Sector leader Daniel Urcía urged caution while noting advantages such as U.S. recognition of Senasa approvals, more than 20 plants already eligible, and access for boneless cuts and trimmings.
- Analysts warn a larger U.S. window would tighten domestic supply and support higher retail prices, with CEPA/IPCVA reporting beef up 61.8% year over year to October and per‑capita intake near 49.5 kg.
- FAO‑cited data show 20 straight months of global price increases as demand outpaces supply, driven by China’s rising consumption and imports, alongside low U.S. cattle stocks and higher U.S. imports.
- Industry speakers highlight constraints on herd rebuilding from limited credit and reduced stocks, even as policy signals such as a pledge against export bans underpin an export‑led strategy.