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
Tight Credit, Strong Yields Define Early December Agriculture
December 08, 2025 07:30 PM
·
Lawmakers and experts react to the Administration’s long-awaited announcement of “bridge” aid to stabilize farms and offset 2025 losses until expanded safety-net programs begin in 2026.
December 08, 2025 05:40 PM
·
Lewie Pugh with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) discusses the gap in truck driver education programs and how it impacts road safety and supply chain economics.
December 08, 2025 03:49 PM
·
Cattle imports from Mexico remain stalled amid the New World screwworm outbreak. At the same time, Tyson closures add pressure on Nebraska producers and markets ahead of the USDA’s upcoming Cattle on Feed Report.
December 08, 2025 01:55 PM
·
Georgia has regained its HPAI-free status after a swift response to October’s detection. Commissioner Tyler Harper urges producers to stay vigilant and maintain biosecurity.
December 08, 2025 01:29 PM
·
While this month’s WASDE report will not include updated figures on U.S. crop size, officials say it will offer a clearer picture of crop conditions in the Southern Hemisphere.
December 08, 2025 01:16 PM
·
