Updated throughout the quota period by the Alba Trade Compliance team
The first tranche of the temporary 300,000-metric-ton Affordable Beef quota increase opened September 1, 2026, under the “Other Countries” quota allocation.
The September tranche provides 100,000 metric tons (100,000,000 kg) of quota access through September 30. The additional quota is separate from the Argentina-specific beef quota and is primarily being utilized by beef imports from Brazil.
Alba is tracking utilization so importers can monitor remaining capacity, evaluate potential duty exposure and plan entries accordingly.
Quota status: 19% filled as of September 9, 2026.
September 2026 Quota at a Glance
| Quota period | September 1 – September 30, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Quota category | Other Countries – Affordable Beef |
| Quota limit | 100,000,000 kg |
| Quota filled | 19% (19,271,607 kg) |
| Quota remaining | 80,728,393 kg |
| 95% threshold | 95,000,000 kg |
| Status | Open |
| Last updated | September 9, 2026 |
Figures reflect the most recent quota utilization data available at the time of posting.
What Importers Should Know
With more than 19.27 million kg already entered against the September tranche, importers should continue monitoring utilization as shipments approach entry.
Available quota capacity can directly affect duty treatment, particularly for shipments arriving later in the month. Importers should:
- Monitor remaining quota capacity as shipments approach entry.
- Plan entry timing around available capacity, rather than assuming the quota will remain open through September 30.
- Evaluate potential duty exposure early for shipments that could arrive after available capacity has been exhausted.
Duty Exposure When the Quota Fills
While quota capacity remains available, qualifying entries may receive the applicable in-quota duty rate. Once available capacity is exhausted, subsequent entries may be subject to the applicable over-quota duty rate.
Get Beef Quota Updates
Alba tracks quota utilization throughout the period and will update this page as additional capacity is used.
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Questions about your shipments or quota exposure? Contact the Alba team for help evaluating entry timing and potential duty impacts.