Brazilian beef exports to China fall 90% amid new quotas

Brazilian beef exports to China fell by 90% in June–August 2026, equivalent to nearly 142.3 thsd tons. The decline followed the introduction of new Chinese import quotas, with shipments above country-specific limits subject to a 55% duty.

Brazil is expected to fully use its 1.1 mln ton quota in September. Australia exhausted its own 205 thsd ton quota in mid-June, after which its beef shipments to China fell by 65% in May–July.

With access to the Chinese market restricted, exporters are increasingly redirecting volumes to other destinations. Australia expanded shipments to the US, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia and Canada, while Brazil partly offset the decline through higher exports to the US, Russia and the EU.

However, Brazil has not been able to fully replace lost Chinese demand. In August, total Brazilian beef exports fell by 26% year on year, putting pressure on domestic cattle prices. Part of the product that was not sold abroad remained on the domestic market.

China’s new import policy is intensifying competition among major beef exporters for alternative markets. Further shifts in global trade flows will depend on access to the US, EU and Asian markets, as well as country-specific quotas, duties and certification requirements.

Tags: China, Brazil, import duties, Beef, Beef cattle, imports