Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno announced a trade agreement between Argentina and the United States that expands the beef export quota to 100,000 tons and removes tariff barriers in key sectors. The deal aims to strengthen bilateral economic ties and could boost exports by up to $1,013 million. The agricultural sector, particularly meat exporters, hailed the pact as a major step forward.
On February 5, 2026, Argentine Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno announced on social media a trade agreement with the United States, aimed at removing tariff barriers and expanding access to key markets. According to the Foreign Ministry statement, the pact will affect productive chains such as beef, steel, and aluminum, with official estimates of recovering $1,013 million in exports.
In the beef sector, the deal grants an expansion to 100,000 tons for preferential access to the U.S. market, adding 80,000 tons to the existing 20,000. "This ensures an additional 80,000 tons in 2026, which adds to the 20,000 tons our country already has, allowing an increase of nearly $800 million in Argentine beef exports," the ministry stated.
The Argentine Beef Exporters Consortium (Consorcio ABC) congratulated the government on the achievement, noting it as "the result of coordinated work between the public and private sectors." The group highlighted that, despite a challenging context due to reduced cattle supply, companies are committed to producing to meet the quota, generating income exceeding $700 million in 2026.
Amadeo Derito, president of the Angus Association, emphasized the U.S. market's value: "It is one of the markets that has grown the most in recent years, and this agreement allows us to enter with quality beef." He explained that a certification protocol homologated with the USDA enables exporting high-value cuts like ribeye and skirt steak.
In context, Argentine beef exports hit a record of $3.7 billion in 2025, with the United States contributing a 27% volume jump to 44,300 tons and $345 million. The agreement is seen as a phenomenon similar to China's previous role in volume, but with a focus on elevated prices.