China has authorized 106 U.S. meat-processing plants-23 pork and 83 poultry facilities-to export eligible products produced on or after June 12, 2025. The reinstatement, announced via a Chinese Customs notice, marks significant progress in the fragile trade truce following renewed U.S.-China dialogue in Geneva.

Earlier this year, Chinese tariffs up to 15% affected $21billion in U.S. agricultural goods as retaliation for U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports. Meanwhile, many U.S. meat-processing plants lost their export eligibility earlier in 2025, jeopardizing Mediterranean-Pacific supply chains under the Phase One deal brokered in 2020. The latest approvals restore pork and poultry access, though beef plants remain excluded with expired registrations.

Analysis: Implications for U.S. Ag Sector

1. Relief for Farmers & Processors
   U.S. pork producers and poultry processors now have expanded market access. China, one of the world's largest protein consumers, has been essential, especially for value-added products like offals-e.g., chicken feet and pork trimmings.

2. Trade Policy Tensions Easing
   The decision signals a timely thaw in tensions following March's retaliatory tariffs. It reaffirms progress under renewed trade conversations in Geneva and could pave the way for beef reinstatement as broader trust is rebuilt.

3. Beef Sector Remains in Limbo
   Notably, beef processing plants are still listed as "expired." U.S. industry groups reported that over 1,000 plants across pork, beef, and poultry industries experienced registration lapses-potentially costing $5billion in export value.

   

4. Supply Chain Ramifications
   Renewed access stabilizes supply for processors and farmers operating on tight margins amid rising farm input costs and market volatility. It also signals to global buyers that U.S. meat supply is reliable and diversified.

5. Regulatory & Sanitary Requirements
   Exporters must abide by Chinese sanitary standards-digital export certificates via the USDA's PHIS system and residue compliance (e.g., ractopamine testing). This places emphasis on compliance and traceability systems from "farm to table."

Looking Ahead

• Beef reinstatement is the next key milestone-stakeholders await confirmation of renewed registrations.

• Agritech & traceability investments may accelerate to ensure compliance and long-term market access, enhancing U.S. standards in food safety and supply chain integrity.

• Commodity price stabilization could result as overall U.S. meat exports to China rise, reducing pressure on domestic markets.

• Watch for upcoming U.S.-China trade talks and possible tariff rollback discussions that may include meat sector expansions.