Could a Ban on Beef Imports Help Cattlemen?

AMARILLO, TX – There are calls on the government to restrict imports of beef at a time when cattle producers are losing money due to strained supply chains in the United States. Even President Trump suggested shutting down the trade with countries during a White House press event last week. Authors of The Cattle Market website suggest that the U.S. should wait until the beef plants have restored slaughter levels then restrict beef imports while maintaining the current trade with both Canada and Mexico. The U.S. imports almost as much beef as it exports but the profile of the type of beef is entirely different. Currently imports of beef are used mostly in lower quality beef grinds (ie ground beef) while the export market is for high-value cuts and offals. The website believes a Presidential order to halt beef imports from South America, Australia, and New Zealand would go a long way towards restoring balance from the excessive supplies of fed cattle on hand.