The big move removes the Trump administration’s key excuse for imposing steep tariffs on Australian beef exports to the US. It is hoped that tariff negotiations will now commence.
Australia has allowed US beef into the country since 2019, but blocked beef from cattle born in Mexico and Canada, slaughtered in America. This effectively barred all beef from the continent because US supply chains are largely integrated. No US beef has been imported since.
Australia’s bans on fresh beef from the US were to protect against the foot-and-mouth outbreak, and Mad Cow disease.
However, in late 2024, the US announced movement controls, meaning that all cattle, from Canada and Mexico, can be identified and traced to the farm and through the supply chain.
The Albanese Government confirmed the big move today with government sources confirming it was communicated to the US government overnight.
“The Albanese Labor Government will never compromise on biosecurity,’’ Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister, Julie Collins MP.
“The US Beef Imports Review has undergone a rigorous science and risk-based assessment over the past decade.
“The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is satisfied the strengthened control measures put in place by the US effectively manage biosecurity risks.
“Australia stands for open and fair trade – our cattle industry has significantly benefited from this.”
The announcement will allow for access to include beef sourced from cattle born in Canada or Mexico, which is legally imported and slaughtered in the US.
Despite the recent tariff war, Australian beef has had back-to-back record-breaking export years, with last year worth $14 billion.