Argentina's beef intake hits 20‑year low as prices surge under Milei austerity

Per‑capita beef consumption in Argentina fell to 44.5 kg (98 lb) in April 2026, the lowest level in two decades, down from 49.5 kg a year earlier. The drop reflects soaring beef prices – up more than 60 % over the past year to about 18,500 pesos ($13) per kilogram in Buenos Aires – and weakened household purchasing power amid President Javier Milei's austerity program.

Since taking office in December 2023, Milei has pursued cuts equivalent to roughly one‑third of public spending, eliminated 13 ministries, laid off about 30,000 public workers and slashed subsidies for electricity, gas, water and transport. Inflation remains above 200 % and wages have barely kept pace, prompting consumers to switch to cheaper proteins. “People are switching to cheaper proteins. They’re eating pork, they’re eating chicken,” said butcher Jorge García. “Beef moved into a completely different purchasing‑power category. Workers’ wages fell far behind,” said meat distributor Juampi Quintero. Economist Camilo Tiscornia noted that lower disposable income forces families to give up more expensive goods such as beef.

In July 2025 the government reduced export taxes and removed production quotas to boost overseas sales. Beef exports rose 54 % in the first quarter of 2026, reaching nearly 200,000 tons worth over $1 billion, even as domestic production fell more than 10 % due to floods and droughts.