Argentina deputy Carlos Puglelli warns meat import surge threatens domestic livestock industry

Buenos Aires deputy Carlos Puglelli (Fuerza Patria) filed a proposal raising alarm over a sharp rise in imported animal protein to Argentina. In recent weeks the country received roughly 3,400 t of beef, 5,600 t of poultry and 5,900 t of pork, an influx the deputy estimates cost the local economy about US$54 million in May.

Puglelli says the imports, largely lower‑value cuts destined for processed products such as sausages and hamburgers, undermine the most vulnerable links of the national meat‑value chain. He warns that the surge could erode competitiveness, increase dependence on foreign supplies and progressively replace Argentine‑produced meat, with likely repercussions for employment, primary production and regional economies.

The deputy notes that domestic beef consumption continues to fall from historic highs, while per‑capita demand for poultry (47 kg) and pork (19.5 kg) is rising, intensifying pressure on the sector.