WASHINGTON, DC – For the first time in two decades, U.S. beef producers will be able to ship fresh and frozen product to Australia. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association confirmed Wednesday that Australia has agreed to ease long-standing restrictions, marking the end of a 20-year trade imbalance.
According to NCBA, Australia exported nearly $29 billion worth of beef to the U.S. over that period, while American beef was locked out of Australia due to regulatory and animal health concerns. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and NCBA both credited President Donald Trump for securing the agreement and removing the final barriers.
Australia’s agriculture ministry said the decision followed a science- and risk-based review. Beginning July 28, Australian companies may apply for permits to import American beef. The country will now accept U.S. beef from animals born in the U.S., Canada, or Mexico, so long as they were legally imported and slaughtered in the country.
The change comes after enhanced U.S. efforts to track animal movement and improve biosecurity, especially against diseases like avian influenza and New World screwworm. Still, analysts say exports to Australia are likely to remain modest due to higher U.S. cattle prices.
Australia’s cattle industry leaders have raised concerns about biosecurity and called for a full independent review before the agreement takes effect. Nonetheless, U.S. officials view the move as a win for science-based trade and a symbolic breakthrough for American ranchers.