China imposes 55% surcharge on Brazilian beef exports

China has activated a safeguard measure that adds a 55% extra duty on Brazilian beef shipments that exceed its annual quota of 1.1 million tonnes. Combined with the existing 12% tariff, the overall charge can reach 67% on volume above the quota.

Brazil has already used about 98.5% of the quota, according to StoneX data, prompting exporters to accelerate shipments and causing a sharp drop in expected exports for the third quarter. Major processors such as JBS and FriGol have announced collective vacations and temporary production cuts in Mato Grosso and Pará, while the sector seeks alternative markets in the United States, Chile, Mexico, the Middle East and Southeast Asia—none of which can immediately replace China’s share, roughly 48% of Brazil’s beef exports.

Analysts warn that the reduced export flow will not automatically lower domestic meat prices; lower slaughter rates mean supply remains tight, and prices may even rise in the final months of the year. The sector could lose up to US$2 billion in revenue. Senator Flávio Bolsonaro has publicly blamed President Lula’s policies and pledged to fight any tariffs, echoing broader political criticism of the trade barrier.