URGENT UPDATE: American cattle ranchers are demanding that President Donald Trump immediately abandon his controversial plan to import beef from Argentina. This escalating dispute comes as the Trump administration seeks to lower soaring beef prices at U.S. grocery stores.
Ranchers are vehemently criticizing Trump’s proposal, asserting it will do little to ease grocery bills while harming the future of American family farms. Colin Woodall, CEO of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), stated, “The NCBA and its members cannot stand behind the President while he undercuts the future of family farmers and ranchers by importing Argentinian beef in an attempt to influence prices.”
The call for action comes as beef prices in the U.S. have surged to record highs. Recent data from the USDA’s Economic Research Service shows a staggering 13.9% increase in beef prices in August compared to the previous year, with forecasts suggesting an additional 11.6% rise by year-end.
This rift between Trump and U.S. ranchers intensified after he revealed plans to import beef during a press briefing aboard Air Force One. The President’s remarks sparked immediate backlash from ranchers who are already frustrated by Argentina’s significant beef exports to the U.S., totaling over $801 million, compared to a mere $7 million worth of American beef shipped to Argentina.
“If it weren’t for me, they would be doing just as they’ve done for the past 20 years — Terrible!”
Trump asserted in a recent post on his Truth Social platform, emphasizing the need for ranchers to lower their prices. He highlighted that his tariffs are the main reason ranchers are experiencing any financial success.
In response to the ongoing controversy, the USDA announced new initiatives aimed at promoting and protecting American beef. However, ranchers are calling these measures insufficient. Farm Action, a nonpartisan agricultural watchdog, is urging the Trump administration to mandate country of origin labeling and investigate the practices of the so-called “Big Four” meatpackers, who they claim manipulate beef prices.
“Ranchers need support to rebuild their herds — that’s how we truly increase beef supply and lower prices long-term,” stated the watchdog in their statement. They stressed that the focus should be on strengthening rural America rather than enabling foreign competitors and corporate monopolies.
Meanwhile, Meriwether Farms from Wyoming has called on Trump to leverage his executive powers to implement mandatory labeling. “This is not good enough,” they declared regarding the USDA’s recent actions.
The situation continues to develop, and ranchers are demanding immediate attention from the administration. As the debate intensifies, the impact on American consumers and farmers remains a critical concern.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds, and the implications for both U.S. ranchers and consumers become clearer.
