WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — U.S. beef buyers will see lower import costs after President Donald Trump signed an executive order removing the extra 40 percent tariff he previously imposed on Brazilian agricultural products earlier this year. The change takes effect retroactively to November 13. It reflects early progress in trade discussions between the White House and Brazilian President Lula, ending months of elevated duties that added to already tight protein supplies.
The order restores lower tariff rates on key products, including fresh and frozen beef, coffee, fruit, fertilizer, and multiple categories of beef offal. These items faced one of the highest penalty rates under Trump’s July trade action, which initially imposed additional duties over concerns tied to Brazil’s domestic political actions. Importers will now receive refunds where applicable, and the administration has posted a revised tariff annex.
For the beef sector, the rollback is significant. Brazil is the world’s largest beef exporter and a major supplier of lean manufacturing beef used in U.S. processing. Regionally, Australia had been filling part of the gap with low-tariff access and strong export volumes, supported by robust U.S. demand for lean high-protein meat. The tariff revision is expected to rebalance competitiveness among major suppliers.
Looking ahead, the administration says negotiations with Brazil will continue, and further tariff adjustments remain possible depending on diplomatic progress and market conditions.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Removing the 40% duty sharply lowers U.S. beef import costs and restores Brazil’s competitiveness during a period of tight domestic supply.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses how AI integration in grocery retail could impact farmers and the broader food supply chain.
February 13, 2026 02:47 PM
·
Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller joins us to discuss the cattle herd rebuild, trade concerns, and how ranchers would define “America First” policy priorities.
February 13, 2026 12:50 PM
·
Nitrogen and phosphate markets are tightening ahead of spring, keeping fertilizer costs elevated while crop prices lag.
February 13, 2026 08:00 AM
·
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney talks about the U.S. House’s latest vote to roll back tariffs on Canada and the ongoing discussions surrounding North American trade.
February 12, 2026 05:02 PM
·
Corn demand remains supportive, but weaker soybean buying limits overall export momentum.
February 12, 2026 03:29 PM
·
Chef and influencer Marcia Smart joined us to discuss Italian-inspired beef dishes, nutrition for active lifestyles, and how global events shape home cooking.
February 12, 2026 02:22 PM
·
The USDA opened a new sterile fly-dispersal facility at Moore Air Base in South Texas to prevent a potential outbreak of New World screwworm and protect the small U.S. cattle herd.
February 12, 2026 10:47 AM
·
China’s reliance on imported soybeans remains entrenched, shaping global demand and trade leverage.
February 12, 2026 10:46 AM
·
Tight cattle supplies favor poultry and pork while keeping beef margins under pressure.
February 12, 2026 06:00 AM
·
