Global and Indonesian Beef Market Developments

China's 55% Beef Import Tariff

China has implemented a significant trade policy change by introducing a 55% tariff on beef imports that exceed quota limits from major suppliers such as Brazil, Australia, and the United States ¹

. This measure, effective from January 1, 2026, is designed to protect China's domestic cattle industry. The total import quota for 2026 stands at 2.7 million metric tons, slightly below the record 2.87 million tons imported in 2024. The quota will increase annually during the three-year period that the tariff is in effect.

Indonesia's 2026 Beef Import Quota

In a related development, Indonesia has established its 2026 beef import quota at 297,097.95 tons, with a specific allocation of 17,097.95 tons for industrial purposes ²

. The Perhimpunan Peternak Sapi dan Kerbau Indonesia (PPSKI) has noted that while the quota might pressure domestic cattle prices, it reflects a balanced consideration between needs and the 2025 realization.

Market Implications

These decisions have significant implications for both global and Indonesian beef markets. China's tariff aims to protect its domestic industry while Indonesia's quota setting balances between supporting local farmers and meeting industrial demands. The combination of these policies will likely influence global beef trade dynamics in the coming years.