U.S.–China Trade Talks and Tariff Reductions Could Boost Pork and Beef Exports
As U.S.–China trade discussions continue to evolve, the agricultural industry is watching closely—especially producers of U.S. pork, beef, and soybeans. Ongoing negotiations between the two countries are influencing commodity prices and global market access, with the potential to reshape export opportunities for American farmers and processors.
U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom recently provided insight into how these developments could affect U.S. meat exports to China. Hallstrom emphasized that tariff de-escalation is essential to restoring strong export demand for both pork and beef.
“De-escalation of tariffs is essential and it’s been holding back demand obviously on both pork and beef. 57% duty on pork, you know there’s business being done, but there’d be a lot more if we were back down to more reasonable levels and the same thing on beef,” Hallstrom explained.
Currently, U.S. pork faces a 57% import duty in China, which continues to limit competitiveness despite ongoing trade activity. Hallstrom noted that lowering these tariffs would unlock significant growth potential for American pork producers.
On the beef side, however, the challenges extend beyond tariffs. Hallstrom clarified that the key issue now involves plant registration and export access, rather than duties themselves.
“And of course the real issue on beef really doesn’t have anything to do directly today with tariffs, it’s all about access on plant registration,” he said.
Despite these barriers, there are encouraging signs elsewhere in the agricultural trade landscape. The recent resumption of U.S. soybean exports to China and commitments for future purchases have signaled renewed cooperation.
“But that being said, there are some good signs outside of beef and pork. There’s resumption of trade in the soybean sector and some commitments going forward, so I think the positive there besides the impact for soybeans, it confirms that ag exports are being looked at and prioritized.”
Hallstrom’s comments highlight a cautiously optimistic outlook for U.S. agricultural exports. As trade negotiations progress, tariff reductions and expanded market access remain top priorities for the meat and grain sectors. A stable trade environment could strengthen the U.S. position as a leading global supplier of beef, pork, and soybeans—key drivers of American farm income and rural economic growth.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.