LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — U.S. beef imports are running at a record pace while exports are falling, reflecting tight domestic cattle supplies and high U.S. beef prices.
An analysis co-authored by Josh Maples of Mississippi State and Dr. David Anderson of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension reports that the U.S. imported 1.7 billion pounds of beef in the first quarter, up more than 15 percent from last year.
Exports moved in the other direction, falling nearly 18 percent to 586 million pounds. South Korea and Japan still accounted for nearly half of U.S. beef exports, but shipments to both countries declined. China fell 95 percent to just 5.3 million pounds.
Brazil led all import suppliers at 394 million pounds, followed by Australia at 334 million. Mexico gained 23 percent to 197 million pounds, with some of the increase likely tied to the feeder-cattle border closure and higher Mexican beef production.
Most imported beef is lean trimming used for ground beef, so the biggest market impact would likely fall on trimming and cull cow values.
The USDA projects another annual beef import record in 2026, keeping export pressure in place as the U.S. herd remains tight.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Record beef imports may put pressure on lean-trimming and cull-cow markets, even as tight cattle supplies support broader prices.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Pseudorabies case confirmed in Iowa herd prompts heightened biosecurity measures as U.S. swine producers work to prevent spread and protect herd health.
Wyoming cowboy and Dusty Vaquero Days founder J.B. Zielke joins us to preview his upcoming event in Gillette and to highlight the festival’s celebration of cowboy culture through music and community events.
The goal is to start conversations and connect farmers with help when they need it.
DOJ and USDA investigate beef industry concentration, with Big Four packers under scrutiny and a major settlement announcement expected later this week.
The new county maps show farm program payments are widespread, but payment design still produces very different outcomes across regions and crops. AgriSompo’s Brooks York joins us to discuss the role of crop insurance in supporting mental health.
Nebraska cattle rancher Joe Van Newkirk joins us to discuss wildfire recovery in Nebraska’s Sandhills athe challenges ranchers face restoring basic infrastructure after the fire.
