Argentina Nearing Deal to Export Bovine By-products to China

Argentina is moving closer to finalizing an agreement with China that would allow the export of bovine by-products to the Asian country, according to a Reuters report from Beijing.

Sources with direct knowledge of the negotiations stated that the two countries are in the final stages of technical discussions, with the Chinese government showing urgency in diversifying its food import sources amid a globally uncertain landscape.

According to Georges Breitschmitt, President of the Argentine Beef Promotion Institute (IPCVA), the conclusion of negotiations appears imminent.

“We’re approaching the end of talks between the two governments. Only specific technical adjustments remain,” he told Reuters during a visit to the Chinese capital.

Breitschmitt also noted that the pace of the discussions has accelerated, although there is still no official date for the signing of the agreement. A second source interviewed by the agency likewise indicated that the deal is expected to be concluded “very soon.”

Reuters also learned that Chinese authorities are scheduled to visit Argentina on June 8 to continue technical discussions and finalize the deal.

This development comes at a strategic moment, as China expands its agricultural supply channels in response to ongoing trade tensions with the United States. In this new trade dynamic driven by Beijing, Buenos Aires, and Brasília are emerging as key partners.

China is already the top destination for Argentine beef, accounting for around two-thirds of the sector’s exports, which in turn represent roughly 30% of the country’s total production. However, when it comes to by-products — such as offal, hides, and bones — the trade flow follows a different pattern, with a more diversified market presence and lower domestic consumption.

Reuters noted that neither Chinese authorities nor the Argentine embassy in Beijing responded to requests for comment. Attempts to reach them by phone also went unanswered.

Source: Compre Rural

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