Argentina Lifts 50-Year Ban on Live Cattle Exports

Argentina’s President Javier Milei has lifted a 50-year ban on live cattle exports with Decree 133/25, enhancing opportunities in the livestock sector. This measure responds to the global demand for live cattle, particularly from markets with specific slaughter practices. Deregulation Minister Federico Sturzenegger has emphasized the importance of reassessing trade restrictions to improve Argentina’s export capabilities and competitiveness.

On Wednesday, Argentine President Javier Milei announced the termination of a 50-year ban on live cattle exports through Decree 133/25. Established in 1973 due to supply challenges, this measure enables new market opportunities for the Argentine livestock sector. The global demand for live cattle is substantial, with leading countries like Australia and France exporting over $1 billion each year.

In the regional context, Uruguay and Brazil have established significant export figures, with Uruguay shipping 250,000 heads annually and Brazil 750,000. The ability to export live cattle is particularly vital for markets that adhere to specific slaughter practices, such as Turkey, which prohibits the slaughter of castrated animals. The decree aims to expand Argentina’s trade opportunities by lifting previous export restrictions.

Deregulation Minister Federico Sturzenegger emphasized the urgency of addressing market exclusions: “Live cattle are also important because they are a product sought by societies that have particular slaughter methods (Turkey, for example, does not slaughter castrated animals). Excluding us from these markets for free is nonsense.” He also pointed out shortcomings in discussions surrounding the exchange rate, which have largely overlooked the extensive trade restrictions in place.

In addition, Sturzenegger remarked: “In recent days, we have discussed the cases of hides, coal, and scrap metal, all with prohibitions or limited export points that curtail export possibilities. Unbelievable.” This decree marks a crucial step for the Argentine livestock sector, signaling a commitment to deregulation and increased international trade opportunities.

The recent decree by President Javier Milei reinstates the possibility for Argentina to join the live cattle export market, ending a long-standing ban. This initiative not only highlights Argentina’s potential in the global livestock sector but also aims to cater to specific international markets with unique slaughtering requirements. Minister Sturzenegger’s comments further underscore the need to eliminate trade restrictions to foster a more competitive economy.

Original Source: en.mercopress.com