Overview
- An executive order increases the in-quota amount of lean beef trimmings by 80,000 metric tons for 2026, with the entire addition allocated to Argentina.
- The measure, titled Ensuring Affordable Beef for the American Consumer, will roll out in four quarterly tranches, starting Feb. 13 and running through March 31 for the first tranche.
- The order cites December 2025 ground beef averages of $6.69 per pound and notes drought, historically low cattle herds, and screwworm-related import disruptions from Mexico.
- The expansion aligns with a U.S.-Argentina trade deal finalized a day earlier that broadens Argentina’s beef access and includes Argentine tariff reductions on U.S. products.
- U.S. beef industry groups oppose the move, warning of market disruption and questioning its consistency with the president’s stated priorities.