Total U.S. beef exports came in a little more than $19 billion last year, with more than half going to the three countries facing the most tariffs: Mexico, China, and Canada.
The meat industry says they are just waiting to see how the situation pans out.
“Obviously very concerning at a very high level, but we’ll have to just see how this all plays out because there’s a lot of moving parts and remains to be seen exactly what the potential impact is short term,” said Dan Halstrom, President and CEO of the U.S. Meat Export Federation.
Halstrom says for the long term, they are hoping to get through these tariff issues with minimal impact.
The Meat Institute also wants action, calling for the removal of non-tariff trade barriers, in hopes of opening new markets for meat producers. They warn that retaliatory tariffs from China will stunt growth, and say that UK policies unfairly restrict meat and poultry exports. The group tells U.S. Trade Rep Jamieson Greer they want to work with the Administration, saying they need support to open new markets for producers.
FWSSR Communications Director Matt Brockman discusses the event’s competitions, safety preparations, and family-friendly activities during the opening weekend.
From Junior Heifer Shows to Mustang Magic competitions, the 23-day event brings together 4-H and FFA participants, livestock enthusiasts, and families to celebrate North Texas’ rich Western heritage.
January 21, 2026 01:03 PM
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Dairy farmer and Discover Ag co-host Tara Vander Dussen joined us to discuss the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, her experience at the signing, and what’s next for her family and farm.
January 21, 2026 12:42 PM
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Wayne Cockrell with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association joined us to discuss preparedness, producer awareness, and the industry’s response to New World screwworm concerns.
January 21, 2026 12:00 PM
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From meatpacking settlements to landmark NEPA rulings, Roger McEowen outlines the top legal developments in 2025 that will shape agriculture in the years ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:39 PM
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Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us to review new policies and regulations supporting the dairy industry and what they mean for the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:25 PM
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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.
January 20, 2026 02:47 PM
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