Argentine President Javier Milei has lifted a 50-year ban on live cattle exports through Decree 133/25, aiming to expand market opportunities for the livestock sector. The global live cattle market is substantial, with other countries exporting significantly. The decree also addresses specific market demands, particularly from regions with unique slaughter practices.
On Wednesday, Argentine President Javier Milei announced the lifting of a 50-year ban on the exportation of live cattle through Decree 133/25, as published in the Official Gazette. This prohibition had been in place since 1973 primarily due to concerns about supply shortages. The initiative from the Libertarian administration is intended to open new market opportunities for Argentina’s livestock sector, promoting growth in an industry that has faced significant restrictions.
The international market for live cattle presents substantial opportunities, with top exporting countries such as Australia, France, and Canada each generating over $1 billion annually from these exports. In South America, Uruguay exports 250,000 cattle per year, while Brazil’s exports are significantly higher, reaching 750,000 heads. Argentina’s reinstatement into this market could enhance its competitiveness.
The decree is particularly important for fulfilling market needs with specific slaughter practices, such as Turkey, which prohibits the slaughter of castrated animals. Deregulation Minister Federico Sturzenegger articulated that this initiative aims to rejuvenate Argentina’s trade opportunities that had been hampered by longstanding restrictions.
Minister Sturzenegger noted, “Live cattle are also important because they are a product sought by societies that have particular slaughter methods. Excluding us from these markets for free is nonsense.” He further remarked that discussions surrounding Argentina’s exchange rate have often overlooked the substantial trade restrictions imposed by the government.
Additionally, he highlighted recent discussions regarding restrictions affecting the export of hides, coal, and scrap metal, stating, “Unbelievable” that these limitations still exist and constrain the potential of Argentina’s export market. The lifting of the ban on live cattle is poised to facilitate improved trade relations and enhance Argentina’s presence in global livestock markets.
The recent decree by Argentine President Javier Milei to lift the ban on live cattle exports marks a significant shift in policy after 50 years. By opening the market to live cattle sales, Argentina positions itself to compete on a global scale, especially for markets with unique slaughter practices. This initiative aims to stimulate growth within the livestock sector while addressing previously imposed trade restrictions that have limited export opportunities.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
