Argentina to nearly triple beef imports in two years

Argentina’s beef imports could reach a record high amid declining domestic production and changing consumption patterns. According to USDA forecasts, the country is expected to import around 50 thsd tons of beef in 2026, up from 24 thsd tons in 2025, while imports could rise further to a record 70 thsd tons in 2027.

Purchases are being supported by competitive prices for imported beef. In some cases, imported cuts are 25–35% cheaper than comparable Argentine products. Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay remain the main suppliers. Some imported beef is used to produce burgers and sausages, while imports of higher-value chilled cuts for retail and foodservice have also increased since late 2025.

Meanwhile, Argentina’s beef production is forecast at 3.05 mln tons in 2026, down from 3.145 mln tons a year earlier. Cattle slaughter could decline to 12.7 mln head from 13.6 mln in 2025, although the impact on production is being partly offset by higher average carcass weights.

Favorable feed prices are encouraging producers to increase cattle weights. In June, the value of just 58 kg of finished steer was enough to buy one ton of corn, compared with an average of 102 kg in 2016–2025. This encourages producers to keep cattle on feed longer and add more weight before slaughter.

Domestic beef consumption is also declining, with USDA forecasting it at 2.28 mln tons in 2026 compared with 2.396 mln tons in 2025. Per capita consumption could fall from 50.6 kg to 47.4 kg. At the same time, higher imports could meet part of domestic demand and allow more Argentine beef to be directed to export markets.

Tags: Beef cattle, imports, Argentina