New agreement removes tariffs and protects common cheese names
U.S. dairy organizations welcomed a new reciprocal trade and investment agreement between the United States and Argentina that creates improved access for American dairy exports. The agreement was supported by the U.S. Dairy Export Council, the National Milk Producers Federation, and the Consortium for Common Food Names.
Under the agreement, Argentina committed to removing tariffs of up to 28 percent on several U.S. dairy products. These include milk powders, dairy proteins, lactose, and other important dairy ingredients. The deal also creates a 1,000 metric ton quota for selected U.S. cheese exports, offering new market opportunities for American processors.
Beyond tariff reductions, the agreement addresses non-tariff barriers that have previously limited trade. Argentina agreed not to impose new processing facility registration requirements on U.S. dairy exports. It is also committed to protecting 39 common cheese names, including widely used terms such as parmesan. These protections help ensure U.S. exporters can continue using familiar product names in international markets.
“The commitments secured in the U.S.-Argentina reciprocal trade deal bring new, real opportunities for our dairy exports to South America,” said Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC. “USDEC appreciates USTR’s hard work in securing agreements that lower tariffs and meaningfully address nontariff barriers, particularly those to protect common cheese names. We look forward to building our market presence in Argentina as the agreement is implemented.”
The agreement comes at a critical time as global competition over food names increases, especially with other international trade agreements moving forward in South America. Protecting common food names helps safeguard U.S. products from restrictions that could limit consumer choice.
“Trade deals like this one bring dairy farmers promise for the future,” said Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF. “Dairy farms operate 365 days a year, and the U.S. negotiating team is keeping pace to secure new market access. NMPF will continue to work with the Administration as all the reciprocal trade agreements are translated into real results on the ground for our farmers.”
This deal follows similar U.S. agreements with El Salvador and Guatemala. Dairy groups stated they will continue working with the U.S. government to ensure trade commitments are implemented and to expand dairy export opportunities worldwide.
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