LUBBOCK, Texas (RFD NEWS) — Global beef trade policy changes are reshaping where product moves in 2026, increasing competitive pressure on U.S. beef exports while supporting higher import volumes. New quota structures in the United States, China, and Mexico are redirecting global supplies and altering price signals across key markets.
Beginning January 1, the U.S. tariff-rate quota for countries without a free trade agreement was reduced to 52,005 metric tons, while a new 13,000-metric-ton quota was established for the United Kingdom. The reduced “Other” quota filled rapidly — reaching 91 percent by January 5 — triggering a 26.4 percent out-of-quota tariff that encourages earlier shipments and higher imports early in the year.
China’s new beef safeguard quotas, paired with a 55 percent over-quota tariff, are expected to limit shipments from Brazil, Australia, and Argentina. With most U.S. beef facilities still lacking export registration, displaced product is likely shifting into Japan, South Korea, and the United States, increasing competition for U.S. exporters.
Mexico’s new 70,000-metric-ton quota for non-FTA beef may curb Brazilian shipments, offering some support to U.S. exports there, but also pushing additional global supply toward the U.S. market.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Rising import pressure and tougher export competition are likely to persist into 2026, supporting domestic supplies while capping export growth.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
USDA Undersecretary Luke Lindberg outlines the Farm Bridge Assistance Program and responds to calls from lawmakers and ag leaders for more assistance and expanded trade opportunities for farmers.
December 19, 2025 12:46 PM
·
Callahan is no stranger to agricultural trade and has been with the U.S. Trade Representative’s office since 2016.
December 19, 2025 11:53 AM
·
December 18, 2025 11:03 AM
December 17, 2025 10:45 AM
A new maritime biofuels coalition aims to position ocean shipping as a significant growth market for U.S. crops and waste-derived fuels.
December 17, 2025 07:00 AM
·
Transportation access, legal disputes, and fertilizer freight costs will directly influence input pricing and grain movement in 2026.
December 16, 2025 01:37 PM
·
Analysts say that while low-income households are facing financial pressures, other middle- and higher-income consumers are helping fill the gap for retail beef demand.
December 16, 2025 12:44 PM
·
Despite China’s sharp drop in grain purchases this year, new USDA export data this week shows that even some buying activity from the trade giant still moves the markets.
December 16, 2025 12:20 PM
·
Corn and wheat exports remain supportive, but weaker soybean demand — especially from China — continues to pressure oilseed markets.
December 16, 2025 12:08 PM
·
