US increases beef imports from Paraguay as domestic prices remain high

The US is increasing beef purchases from Paraguay as domestic meat prices remain elevated. According to Paraguayan President Santiago Peña, Washington is showing growing interest in supplies from the country as one way to increase availability on the US market.

Paraguayan beef exports to the US have grown rapidly since the market opened in late 2023. Shipments increased from just 75 tons in 2023 to 28 thsd tons in 2024 and 49.5 thsd tons in 2025.

In 2026, the industry is targeting around 75 thsd tons of beef exports to the US. From January through August, shipments had already reached 35.4 thsd tons worth $211 mln, making the US Paraguay’s second-largest beef market after Chile.

Paraguay still does not have a dedicated tariff quota in the US market. Its shipments fall under a broader quota shared with other countries, where Brazil is the main competitor, while a 26.4% duty applies once the duty-free volume is exhausted.

In August, the US temporarily eased tariff conditions for beef imports from several suppliers, including Paraguay. This creates additional export opportunities, although Paraguay continues to compete with other major suppliers for access to the US market.

Tags: Beef cattle, USA, Paraguay