By Jamie Martin
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is pressing the U.S. government to improve trade conditions for American beef producers. Robby Kirkland, chairman of the Texas Cattle Feeders Association, represented the NCBA during a House Ways and Means Committee hearing on trade priorities.
Kirkland praised the success of previous trade agreements in boosting rural economies and U.S. beef exports. However, he noted that American producers face higher tariffs and stricter regulations while other countries strike better deals.
He warned that U.S. hesitation in trade negotiations has created barriers for American beef exports in key regions like Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.
“U.S. cattle producers produce the highest quality beef in the world and benefit greatly from market-based, science-based, and rules-based trade policies,” Kirkland stated.
He raised serious concerns over allowing imports from nations like Brazil and Paraguay, which have faced repeated issues with Foot-and-Mouth Disease and weak food safety records. The NCBA also criticized Australia for not granting U.S. beef access despite exporting nearly $29 billion worth of beef to the U.S. in the last two decades.
Kirkland called this delay unfair and emphasized that U.S. beef meets the highest global safety and animal health standards.
The NCBA urged Congress and President Trump to protect U.S. cattle producers by enforcing existing trade agreements and ensuring fair treatment from foreign partners. The organization wants to see immediate action that supports export growth and safeguards the nation’s beef supply chain.
Photo Credit: national-cattleman-s-beef-association
Categories: National