NCBA Responds to Trump’s Argentina Beef Comments: “A Direct Attack on U.S. Cattle Producers”
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is speaking out after recent comments made by President Donald Trump regarding potential beef imports from Argentina. The proposal has drawn immediate criticism from industry leaders who say the plan could undermine American beef producers.
Colin Woodall, NCBA’s Chief Executive Officer, didn’t hold back in expressing his disappointment. “Well, we are extremely concerned with the plan, but probably more importantly, we are just flat disappointed that this is the approach that the President has taken.”
While acknowledging the administration’s intention to lower beef prices for consumers, Woodall warned that the strategy would harm the very foundation of the U.S. beef industry. “We understand what he is trying to do, but what he does not realize is that in trying to bring the price of beef down for the consumer, it means he is going to bring down the price being paid for cattle for U.S. producers.”
He continued, “So in effect, this is a direct attack on U.S. cattle producers, and it negates so much of the work that we have done over the years to build the overall quality of our product, a quality that we are very proud of.”
The NCBA points to consumer demand as a sign of the industry’s strength. “When you see the amount of beef that is grading choice and prime, the consumer likes what we are giving them, and they have made it very clear that they want more of it, and that is why demand remains at almost a 40-year high, and that the consumer is still buying our great product.”
Woodall warned that the administration’s plan would hinder producers’ ability to benefit from that strong demand. “And unfortunately, the President’s plan will have a huge impact on how we as cattle producers can capitalize on that.”
As this issue develops, the NCBA is expected to continue pushing back against any policies that could threaten the pricing, quality, and reputation of U.S. beef in both domestic and international markets.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.