China Imposes 55% Tariff on Brazilian Beef Imports
China will impose a 55% tariff on Brazilian beef imports exceeding quota levels starting October 1 to protect its domestic cattle industry.
The Ministry of Commerce of China will impose an additional 55% tariff on beef imports from Brazil starting October 1. The tariff applies specifically to imports that exceed the established annual quota of 1.1 million metric tons. This action follows a January announcement by China aimed at protecting its domestic cattle industry.
The measure stems from a dispute over quota reallocation. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva stated that Uruguay authorized Brazil to use its surplus beef export quota, but China rejected Brazilian lobbying efforts to relax the existing restrictions.
The trade restriction contributes to a broader decline in Brazilian exports. The industry group Abiec estimated that Brazil's total beef export volumes would drop 10% year-on-year in 2026, citing restrictions from both Beijing and the European Union.
