President Donald Trump’s recent comments about importing more beef from Argentina to lower grocery store prices have drawn strong criticism from farm leaders. Three major organizations say the plan could hurt American ranchers and weaken the domestic cattle industry.
Farm Groups United in Opposition
The National Farmers Union (NFU), National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), and American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) are united in their response. Each argues that the solution to high beef prices lies in fixing the U.S. market—not relying on foreign beef.
“Lowering beef prices for consumers starts with restoring fairness in the marketplace, not by importing beef from Argentina,” said NFU President Rob Larew. He urged the administration to rebuild domestic herds, strengthen competition laws, and reinstate country-of-origin labeling (COOL) so consumers know where their beef comes from.
Trade Imbalance and Disease Concerns
The NCBA raised additional warnings about trade fairness and animal health. “Rewarding Argentina with expanded market access harms American cattlemen and women,” said NCBA CEO Colin Woodall. He noted that Argentina has a history of foot-and-mouth disease, which could devastate U.S. herds if reintroduced.
The NCBA also pointed to a major trade imbalance. Over the past five years, Argentina has exported more than $800 million worth of beef to the U.S., while American beef exports to Argentina totaled just $7 million. “Opening the door to more Argentine beef creates chaos for U.S. producers and does nothing to lower grocery store prices,” Woodall said.
Farm Bureau: Focus on Stability at Home
The American Farm Bureau Federation echoed those concerns. “We know families struggle when food prices rise,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall, “but farmers are facing an economic storm too.”
He said U.S. cattle herds have already fallen to historic lows due to drought and high costs. Allowing more imported beef, Duvall warned, could discourage producers from rebuilding their herds and threaten America’s long-term food independence.
Underlying Problem: Market Power and Profit Gaps
The debate over imports comes amid growing frustration across the cattle sector. Retail beef prices remain near record highs, yet many producers are still earning less for their cattle.
Industry leaders blame corporate consolidation among meatpackers, which they say has reduced competition and transparency.
Groups like the NFU argue that restoring market balance—through stronger antitrust enforcement and more local processing—would benefit both ranchers and consumers. Imports, they say, only mask deeper structural problems.
Next Steps
As the administration weighs its next move, farm organizations are calling for a seat at the table. They want policies that strengthen, not replace, domestic production. “The answer isn’t foreign beef,” said Larew. “It’s a fair system that works for both farmers and consumers.”
