Cattle industry calls the trade deal with the UK a “win” for U.S. ranchers

America’s farmers and ranchers got a special shoutout from the Oval Office this week. During a press conference announcing the trade deal with the United Kingdom, President Trump said the agreement will greatly benefit rural America.

“The deal includes billions of dollars of increased market access for American exports, especially in agriculture, dramatically increasing access for American beef, ethanol, and virtually all of the products produced by our great farmers, and our Secretary of Agriculture is here. Brooke, thank you very much. You’ll let the farmers know.”

Sec. Rollins explained that part of the deal includes a big win for beef producers with around $250 million in exports for products like beef. Tariff rates were adjusted as well. The UK dropped its rate, while the U.S. saw a jump to 10 percent. President Trump also said the UK would be removing non-tariff barriers as part of the agreement. Secretary Rollins will be in the UK early next week to talk with her British counterparts. For now, the cattle industry is calling this a win for U.S. ranchers.

Related Stories
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
From rising trade tensions in Europe to a pending Supreme Court decision on tariffs and shifting demand from China, global trade policy spearheaded by President Donald Trump continues to shape the outlook for U.S. agriculture—adding uncertainty as farmers navigate another volatile year.
The Surface Transportation Board rejects the proposed Norfolk Southern–Union Pacific merger, prompting concerns from agricultural shippers about rail consolidation, service reliability, and higher transportation costs.
Freight volatility and route selection remain critical to soybean export margins and competitiveness.
While short-term volatility remains a risk, softer ocean freight rates in 2026 could improve export margins.
Trade volatility and shifting export destinations increase marketing risk for producers heading into 2026.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

When you work on your estate plan, RFD-TV’s farm legal and tax expert Roger McEowen recommends preparing a vital list of information for whoever will need it.
Original Music Television Series Premieres Fridays at 8:30 pm ET