Australia has lifted biosecurity restrictions on US beef imports, reversing measures previously criticized by former US President Donald Trump. Agriculture Minister Julie Collins stated the decision followed a scientific assessment concluding that the risks associated with US beef imports are adequately managed. The restrictions, some of the world's toughest, previously prevented the acceptance of beef from cattle raised in Canada and Mexico but slaughtered in the US. A ban on US beef, implemented in response to a mad cow disease outbreak, was lifted in 2019, but other restrictions remained.

The move follows Trump's 2025 comments criticizing Australia's ban on US beef, which he linked to retaliatory tariffs. Meat & Livestock Australia, a producer-owned company, anticipates minimal market impact due to high US beef demand, a low US cattle herd, the Australian dollar's strength, domestic supply, and consumer preference for Australian beef. Despite a 10 percent tariff introduced in April 2025, Australian beef exports to the US increased by 24 percent year-on-year in June 2025.

Impact Statement: The decision is unlikely to significantly disrupt the Australian beef market due to existing consumer preferences and market dynamics.