Argentina Lowers Beef Export Tax to Boost Foreign Sales

The Argentine government has announced a reduction in the beef export tax by 25%, lowering it from 9% to 6.75%. This move aims to promote sales to foreign markets and improve the income levels of producers and processors, thereby enhancing Argentina’s presence in international markets[1].

This decision by the libertarian President Javier Milei partly fulfills his promise to farmers to reduce and eventually abolish taxes on food commodities, of which Argentina is a significant global exporter. Interestingly, this move also signifies a rapprochement with China, a country Milei had criticized during his electoral campaign and early months in office. China remains Argentina’s main market for meat sales, accounting for 81% of Argentine beef exports[1].

The latest figures from meat exporters show that Israel takes 6% of Argentine beef sales, the United States 5%, Germany 4%, and the Netherlands 3.6%[1]. While the announcement is likely to be welcomed by most cattle breeders and meat processors in Argentina, it has drawn criticism from some quarters.

Paolo Rocca, CEO of Techint, one of Argentina’s largest global corporations, voiced concerns about the impact of China’s purchasing approach on Latin America. Rocca warned about the “primary goods no added value economies trap” that Latin American countries, including Argentina, have fallen into due to Beijing’s centralized and authoritarian policies[1]. He emphasized the need for Argentina to review its long-term strategic policies to avoid becoming overly reliant on exporting primary goods to China[1].

Despite these concerns, the reduction in export tax is expected to provide a significant boost to Argentina’s beef industry, helping it to compete more effectively in the global market.

[1]: An external link was removed to protect your privacy.

References

[1] Argentine government lowers beef export tax to 6.75%

MercoPress

UK approves tariff-free meat imports from Australia and NZ

Windsor Framework Trade Deal: Tariff-Free Meat Imports for Northern Ireland

The UK and EU have ratified an important change to the Windsor Framework trade deal. This update gives Northern Ireland (NI) businesses wider access to UK free trade agreements.

Previously, NI importers could not benefit from tariff-free arrangements on certain meat products. Higher tariffs created barriers that the rest of the UK did not face. Now, the new deal allows over 13,000 tonnes of lamb, beef and poultry from Australia and New Zealand to enter NI tariff-free under UK tariff rate quotas. However, any imports above this quota will still face tariffs.

The move is already being welcomed. Steve Baker, UK Minister of State for Northern Ireland, described the change as a unique arrangement. He said it would “further cement Northern Ireland’s place in the UK”. Moreover, he stressed the importance of including safeguards in free trade deals to prevent the market from being flooded with low-priced imports.

At the same time, the government has promised to introduce legislation to secure this commitment in law. This step will provide clarity and reassurance to importers and suppliers. As a result, NI businesses will be able to plan more confidently for the months ahead.

For the meat trade, the benefits are clear. Wholesalers, caterers and processors now have the chance to diversify sourcing, access competitive pricing, and strengthen their supply chains with trusted partners in Australia and New Zealand.

In summary, the updated Windsor Framework trade deal delivers both opportunity and stability. It supports Northern Ireland’s role within the UK market while opening doors to high-quality global meat imports.

source: John Campbell | BBC News N.I

First shipment of Russian pork arrives in China

First Shipment of Russian Pork Arrives in China

In a historic move, the first shipment of Russian pork arrives in China, marking the end of a 15-year ban. Chinese authorities lifted African swine fever restrictions in September 2023, paving the way for renewed trade.

The 27-ton consignment originated from the Belgorod region. Russia’s Miratorg holding produced the meat and began its journey on 7 March 2024. It was loaded onto a refrigerated container train at Selyatino, then shipped to Vladivostok. From there, the cargo sailed to Nansha port in China. The journey concluded with the shipment arriving at its destination on 13 April 2024. The entire process took approximately one month.

“Our aim is to expand supply volumes in the coming years and tailor products to Chinese preferences,” said Miratorg’s press service. They highlighted their full control over product traceability—from field to table—and pledged to meet all Chinese veterinary standards.

This shipment, supervised by Rosselkhoznadzor (Russia’s veterinary authority), was handled by Fesco’s subsidiary, Dalreftrans. It received Beijing’s approval based on strict sanitary and quarantine standards.

Furthermore, the success has not been isolated. By early April, another Russian enterprise dispatched three additional pork by‑product shipments to China, totaling nearly 168 tonnes.

Overall, this event signals a turning point for Russian pork exports. It represents the first of many potential shipments that could reshape trade between Russia and China.

source: Interfax

Also:

Russia sends first pork shipment to China in 15 years

Russian pork exports to China begin ahead of schedule

First Russian pork on its way to China

Boosting pork exports to Southeast Asia: Russia launches the Meat Shuttle

QMS relaunches Scotch Beef Club in Italy

QMS Relaunches Scotch Beef Club in Italy to Strengthen Export Connections

On 3 April 2024, QMS relaunched the Scotch Beef Club in Italy, underscoring its commitment to premium export markets. The relaunch took place during a high-profile gastronomic event in Milan, where leading foodservice buyers gathered around a three-course menu featuring Scotch Beef, paired with Scotch whisky tasting. The aim: to enhance brand awareness and strengthen trade ties.

Italy already accounts for £10 million (around 15 %) of Scotch Beef exports as of July 2023 — a significant export channel. Any restaurant worldwide serving quality Scotch Beef can now join the Club and benefit from QMS support, marketing collateral, and promotional resources.

Tom Gibson, QMS’s Director of Business Development, said the initiative helps bring the virtues of traceability, provenance, and consistent quality to chefs and restaurateurs. He emphasised that boosting trade in high-value markets like Italy is a top priority.

QMS Brand Development Manager Gordon Newlands added that the Brand’s compelling story—rooted in quality assurance and ethical production—resonates strongly in the Italian foodservice scene. The relaunched Club offers QMS a structured platform to deepen relationships with chefs, buyers, and partners.

Quality Meat Scotland