U.S.-Argentina Trade Deal Reshapes Agricultural Market Access

The U.S. trade deal with Argentina creates new export opportunities for U.S. livestock and crop producers but also raises competitive concerns.

ARGENTINIAN CATTLE_PHOTO BY FOTO4440 VIA AdobeStock_256925881.jpg

Steers in a pasture in Pampas, Argentina.

Photo by foto4440 via Adobe Stock

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — A newly signed U.S.–Argentina trade agreement is set to reshape agricultural trade flows while deepening broader economic ties between the two countries. The deal, backed by President Donald Trump and Argentine President Javier Milei, lowers tariffs and expands market access, with implications for both farm exports and domestic supply dynamics.

The agreement signed on Thursday reduces or eliminates tariffs on a wide range of goods, including agricultural products, as part of a broader effort to increase bilateral trade and investment. U.S. officials say the framework is designed to open new markets for American producers while lowering costs for consumers.

For agriculture, key provisions include improved access for U.S. exports and expanded duty-reduced quotas for Argentine beef entering the U.S. market. Argentina also agreed to streamline regulatory requirements for U.S. beef and pork shipments, which could increase trade volumes.

Impacts will vary by sector: grain and oilseed markets will monitor competitive dynamics in South America, while U.S. cattle producers will monitor potential pressure from increased beef imports.

The agreement now moves into implementation, with details and timelines expected to guide marketing and production decisions in the months ahead.

Farm-Level Takeaway: The trade deal creates new export opportunities but also raises competitive considerations for U.S. livestock and crop producers.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist

Related Stories
The President’s trip to Asia this week follows a trade mission by the Iowa Soybean Association. Farmers say they were reminded that U.S. soybeans have an international reputation that can be easy to take for granted here at home.
The review signals renewed scrutiny of China’s agricultural trade pledges and could reshape farm export opportunities depending on its outcome.
The U.S.-Japan tech pact signals long-term investment in bio-innovation, connectivity, and secure supply chains — all of which can strengthen rural manufacturing, ag exports, and digital infrastructure critical to the next generation of farm productivity.
Export volumes remain positive year-to-date, but weaker soybean loadings and slowing wheat movement hint at early bottlenecks in global demand or river logistics. Farmers should watch basis levels and freight conditions as export competition heats up.
Imported lean beef continues to play a critical role in U.S. hamburger and ground-beef production, with any added volume from Argentina serving as a supplement — not a market overhaul.
A fast-moving series of trade signals from the White House and key partners is resetting the near-term outlook for U.S. agriculture.
Stay alert for trade announcements—especially border reopening timelines, tariff threats, and developments in Brazil’s export flows.
R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard joins Market Day Report for his insight on the USDA’s plan to strengthen the U.S. beef industry.
Until a phased reopening is inked, plan for tighter feeder availability, firmer basis near border yards, and continued reliance on domestic and Canadian sources.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Treat succession like any major crop — plan early, document clearly, and calibrate cash flow so the next generation can succeed.
Chris Bliley with Growth Energy discusses ongoing concerns about U.S. ethanol exports and the expansion of market access promised under the Phase One deal between the U.S. and China.
With core input inflation still hovering high, growers and retailers should plan pricing and promotions with tighter margins in mind — target early sales, leverage bundle deals, and secure logistics ahead of peak Halloween demand.
The U.S.-China summit raises hopes for stronger exports and reduced barriers, but U.S. ag players should remain strategically cautious until concrete volumes and certifications materialize.
Global agriculture is stabilizing after years of price swings, with flat to modestly rising returns expected as productivity offsets slower demand growth.
Prepare for softer milk checks into winter, watch cull-cow values and timing, and stress-test cash flow as product prices recalibrate.