Ag Matters: Who is benefitting from the beef imports?

The Trump administration’s proposal to allow additional beef imports into the United States is drawing criticism from the agriculture industry. Wisconsin Farmers Union President Darrin Von Ruden says the move could put downward pressure on cattle prices just as beef producers have begun to regain profitability.

Von Ruden also rejects the argument that imported beef will help rebuild the nation’s historically low cattle herd.

He acknowledges consumer concerns about food prices, but Von Ruden says producers are only now reaching a point where market returns are keeping pace with rising costs.

While supporters say increased imports could provide relief at the grocery store, Von Ruden questions whether any savings will actually make it to consumers.

That was Wisconsin Farmers Union President Darrin Von Ruden, who says expanded beef imports could reduce returns for U.S. cattle producers while offering no guarantee of savings at the meat counter.