Recent trade action has largely been absent from some of the latest government reports, but one industry official warns consumers will likely feel the impact in the coming months.
The Chief Executive at Omaha Steaks warns consumers might see their beef costs begin to increase around the third quarter, which is typically around July, August, and September, prime grilling season. He tells Fox Business the impact will likely happen over time.
10 percent of global tariffs kicked in earlier this month, including beef imports from suppliers in Australia, Brazil, and New Zealand.
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China’s beef policy risk stems from domestic volatility, making export demand inherently unstable. Jake Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance offers his perspective on cattle markets, risk management, and producer sentiment.
Structural efficiency supports cattle prices and resilience — breaking it risks higher costs and greater volatility.
Strong pork demand and improving beef exports outside China support protein markets despite ongoing trade barriers.
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.
Reduced winter placements indicate tighter fed cattle supplies and greater leverage during peak-demand months.
Retail pricing confirms tight cattle supplies and supports continued leverage for producers, reinforcing the need for disciplined risk management.
Seasonal boxed beef softness does not change the tight-supply outlook — leverage remains closer to the farm gate heading into 2026.
