Trump Proposes Argentine Beef Imports Amid Scrutiny

President Trump proposed importing beef from Argentina to try to bring down record-high U.S. consumer prices, comments he made after visiting Argentina and on his social platform and to reporters. The plan drew sharp pushback from U.S. cattle ranchers, state livestock groups and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, who say imports would undercut domestic producers, likely won’t lower retail prices, and could introduce animal-disease and traceability risks. Ranchers and experts point to drought-driven herd reductions and supply constraints as the main drivers of higher beef costs and warn packers could use imports to pressure what they pay ranchers rather than reduce grocery bills. The USDA and the administration say they are working on herd-restoration plans and other farm-support measures. Reports tying the proposal to broader U.S. financial assistance for Argentina have added political scrutiny, and industry leaders are urging the White House to abandon the plan.