Ranchers Cry “Betrayal” Over Trump’s Plan to Buy Beef From Argentina
President Trump’s suggestion to import beef from Argentina to lower US prices has drawn sharp criticism from US ranchers and industry groups. These groups argue that the move undermines American cattle producers, who are already struggling with high input costs and market manipulation, and could lead to plummeting US cattle prices. They propose alternative solutions like reinstating mandatory country-of-origin labeling, enforcing antitrust laws, and rebuilding the US cow herd to ensure national self-reliance in beef production. Concerns have also been raised about Argentina’s history with foot-and-mouth disease and the unbalanced trade relationship between the two countries. Critics suggest that Trump’s proposal prioritizes Argentina over American interests, particularly given the rising cost of groceries for US consumers.
John Q. Hosedrinker