Argentina and Uruguay Boost Quota Usage with U.S. Trade

Argentina and Uruguay have substantially increased their quota usage of beef exports to the United States. As of January 26, 2023, Argentina exported nearly 2,200 tons of beef under its U.S. quota, surpassing the amount it shipped in the same timeframe last year by over four times. Meanwhile, Uruguay recorded exports of 1,800 tons, more than double its performance during the same period in 2022.

Boost in Quota Usage

In January, Argentina fulfilled 11% of its annual beef quota, while Uruguay completed 9%. This contrasts with Australia and New Zealand, whose exports decreased. Australia exported 27,000 tons, down 15% compared to the previous year, and New Zealand shipped 12,000 tons, a 24% decrease.

Impact of Third Country Quotas

• Third countries’ quotas were exhausted again before the end of January.
• Brazil was the main contributor, with Paraguay also playing a smaller role.
• The total quota was set at 52,000 tons, adjusted after 13,000 tons were allocated to Great Britain.

Despite the adjustment, Great Britain has not utilized any of its allocated quota thus far.

This recent development highlights the growing capacities of Argentina and Uruguay to leverage their export potentials effectively within the U.S. trade framework.