Cattle groups wanting Trump to reverse import plan

Some ag groups are asking President Trump to reverse a proposed plan to import beef that he says would lower prices for consumers.

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Gene Copenhaver explains that the move isn’t going to decrease prices for consumers. “What he’s going to import is trim, and it’s going to be with a byproduct of fat mixed with it. There’s no way that’s going to help the producer either. The only thing it’s done has lower cattle prices.”

U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Justin Tupper mentioned that government interference creates unnecessary volatility and impacts producer decisions. “The board’s tumbled probably $30 cwt since the announcement. I also wonder who else knew all these announcements were coming ahead of time. Yes, this absolutely sends the wrong market signal at a time when we’re trying to get guys to retain heifers.”

Both producers say they have connected with Congressional delegations about their organizations’ worries and are committed to partnering with the Trump administration to find an equitable solution.