U.S. To Accept More Beef Imports Under Temporary TRQ Increase
Published Aug. 27, 2026
Key Points
- U.S. will temporarily increase the 2026 in-quota quantity for certain lean beef trimmings by 300,000 metric tons.
- The additional quantity applies only to lean beef trimmings under four specified HTSUS statistical reporting numbers.
- The quota will open in three 100,000-metric-ton tranches, starting September 1, October 1, and October 31, 2026.
- Access to the additional quota will be first come, first served, with the final tranche closing when the quantity is filled or on November 30, 2026.
- The full 300,000-metric-ton increase will go to “other countries or areas,” while the separate 80,000-metric-ton increase for Argentina remains unchanged.
President 
Trump signed a proclamation on August 26, 2026, temporarily increasing the 2026 in-quota quantity under the U.S. beef tariff-rate quota (TRQ) by 300,000 metric tons. The additional quantity will be available under the existing beef tariff-rate quota and will open in three 100,000-metric-ton tranches starting September 1, 2026. The accompanying White House fact sheet also clarifies that the temporary TRQ increase does not modify beef commitments under U.S. free trade agreements or apply to countries with country-specific beef quotas.
Which Beef Products Are Covered?
The additional 300,000 metric tons applies only to lean beef trimmings classified under these HTSUS statistical reporting numbers:
- 0201.30.5091
- 0201.30.5097
- 0202.30.5091
- 0202.30.5097
How the Additional Quota Will Be Administered
The additional 300,000 metric tons will be released in three 100,000-metric-ton tranches:
- First tranche: 100,000 mt from September 1 through September 30, 2026.
- Second tranche: 100,000 mt from October 1 through October 30, 2026.
- Third tranche: 100,000 mt from October 31 through November 30, 2026, or until the quota is filled, whichever comes first.*
*The third tranche will close earlier if the additional in-quota quantity fills before November 30.
As mentioned earlier, imports will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis
Allocation to Other Countries
The full 300,000-metric-ton increase is allocated to “other countries or areas.” Also, the new increase does not replace or reduce the separate increase for Argentina. The 80,000 metric tons added for Argentina under Proclamation 11010 remains in effect.
CBP and HTSUS Changes
The attached Annex adds HTSUS heading 9903.54.02 for the additional 300,000 metric tons of lean beef trimmings from other countries or areas. The quantity can be entered for consumption from September 1 through November 30, 2026, and cannot exceed 100,000 metric tons in any 30-day period.
Why the U.S. Increased the Quota
The proclamation says beef prices remain under pressure because of lower U.S. cattle supplies, restrictions on live cattle imports from Mexico due to New World Screwworm concerns, drought, wildfires, and strong domestic beef demand. The USDA expects U.S. beef production to fall by about 4% in 2026 compared with 2025.
The USDA and USTR will also monitor prices for beef trimmings imported under the increased quota. If they are not sold at least 25% below the market price, the President can remove the remaining additional quota.
How GHY Can Help?
GHY specializes in helping businesses navigate and reduce the impacts of tariffs through strategic solutions tailored to their needs. Our experts can audit your supply chain to identify inefficiencies, uncover cost-saving opportunities, and ensure compliance with evolving trade regulations. We also employ tariff engineering techniques to optimize product classification and sourcing strategies, minimizing duty exposure and maximizing profitability.
By partnering with GHY, your business gains access to the tools and expertise needed to streamline operations and stay competitive in a challenging trade environment.
Contact Us Today! Booking a Meeting, email consult@ghy.com, or call +1 (800) 667-0771.
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