President Trump announced a slew of reciprocal tariffs earlier this week, and it is receiving mixed reviews from the agriculture industry.
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says he is not sure why anyone is surprised by the announcement and talks about the opportunities for the cattle industry.
Lane also stressed why trade is vital to the industry and calls out Australia.
What do cattlemen want from a Trump Administration trade agenda?
Lane provides an update on the Mexican feeder cattle situation.
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Winter Weather, Drought Shape Early 2026 Farm Conditions
Protein markets are fragmenting. Beef is supply-driven and more structurally expensive, whereas pork and poultry remain price-competitive.
Tight fed supplies shift margin risk to packers, strengthening cattle price leverage but increasing volatility.
Expanding chicken supplies are likely to keep prices under pressure in early 2026 despite steady demand growth.
Reduced winter placements indicate tighter fed cattle supplies and greater leverage during peak-demand months.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
