China has announced new quotas on beef imports following a safeguard investigation into the impact of rising volumes on its domestic industry, with the measures set to take effect from 1 January 2026 for three years.
The quotas will apply to all major beef-exporting countries, including New Zealand, which has been allocated an annual duty-free quota starting at 206,000 tonnes and rising to 214,000 tonnes, with a potential value of up to $1.75 billion if fully used.
Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay said the quota, while disappointing, exceeds New Zealand’s beef exports to China over the past two years, which have averaged about 150,000 tonnes annually, meaning exporters are unlikely to face restrictions.
He said the outcome reflected strong engagement with Chinese authorities and left New Zealand in a better position than some countries that have seen access reduced.
China remains New Zealand’s second-largest beef market after the United States, accounting for $961 million, or 19 percent, of beef export value in the year to November 2025. The government says exporters can remain confident in continued demand from China and will continue working with Chinese officials to ensure smooth implementation of the new arrangements.
Image credit: Los Muertos Crew
