China Keeps Door Shut on Most US Beef
China’s Ongoing Lockout of US Beef Continues
China continues to block most US beef exports. The majority of American beef production has been effectively locked out of the Chinese market since March 2025, according to industry leaders.
The issue stems from China’s ongoing refusal to renew export registrations for US beef production plants and cold storage facilities. Without valid registrations, product from these facilities cannot legally enter the Chinese market. Only a small fraction of US beef is eligible for export.
The US Meat Export Federation (USMEF) has warned that the prolonged exclusion is undermining the overall value of the US beef carcase at a critical time for the industry. US cattle inventories are at historically low levels. Therefore, access to high-value export markets is seen as essential to maximising returns across the full range of cuts.
USMEF leaders stress that China plays a disproportionate role in carcase balance because it absorbs cuts that attract weaker demand domestically. The continued lockout is therefore placing pressure on prices for certain muscles and by-products. This is happening even as overall beef supplies remain tight.
Industry sources say the situation remains unresolved despite ongoing dialogue between US authorities and Chinese regulators. The registration impasse highlights broader trade tensions and regulatory friction between the two countries. There is little clarity on when or how access might be restored.
Source: Beef Magazine | 6 February 2026
Read full article Share on X