March 2, 2007

Trade restrictions suppress Argentine beef trade in 2006
 

Argentina's beef exports were down by almost a third in 2006 compared with 2005, according to final figures released in the Global Trade Information Service (GTIS),  European Market Survey.

Restrictions were applied by the government of Argentina in March 2006 which virtually suspended exports for 180 days in order to ensure domestic beef supplies and curb soaring domestic inflation. The restrictions were relaxed throughput the year, but were tightened again in December as domestic supplies fell due to reduced throughput and strong demand.

Exports in 2006 were down 123,000 tonnes to 314,400 tonnes (GTIS). Only 17 percent of the total (or 54,700 tonnes) were exported to the EU, with exports to Germany and the UK down 17 percent and 50 percent, respectively. The leading non-EU destination was Russia, despite exports to this market easing 12 percent to 170,200 tonnes, on 2005, as Russia sought alternative suppliers.