USMEF: Trade Deals like USMCA Ensure Critical Export Markets for U.S. Beef and Pork

USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom shares how recent trade talks are influencing U.S. red meat global sales and the importance of key trade agreements like the USMCA.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — Global trade deals remain at the forefront of discussions in the U.S. red meat industry as producers and exporters navigate shifting markets. Dan Halstrom, President and CEO of the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the latest developments and their impact on U.S. beef and pork sales worldwide.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, Halstrom provided an update on how recent trade talks are influencing global sales, emphasizing the importance of strong relationships with key markets, and previewed the upcoming strategic planning conference, where the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will be a major topic of discussion.

Halstrom also highlighted the updates attendees can expect regarding this critical trade agreement and its implications for the industry. Finally, he explained the significance of having staff from around the globe participate in the conference, stressing how interaction with U.S. farmers, ranchers, packers, and other members strengthens partnerships and supports market growth.

Related Stories
Distillers dried grains (DDG) values follow corn and soybean meal trends, with ethanol grind and feed demand shaping costs into early 2026.
Recognizing phosphorus and potash as critical minerals underscores their importance in crop production and food security, providing producers with an added layer of risk protection.
Pork producers should prioritize health and productivity gains, hedge feed and hogs selectively, and watch Brazil’s export pace and China’s sow policy for price signals.
For tight margins, contract grazing leverages existing acres into new income streams and spreads risk. Here are some tips for row crop farmers looking to diversify.
Jan and Erin Johnson also join FarmHER + RanchHER host Kirbe Schnoor on this week’s Dirt Diaries podcast to dig in on entrepreneurship, legacy, and letting go.
Texas Cattle Feeders Association Chairman Robby Kirkland explains how the ongoing U.S.-Mexico border closure impacts feed yards that rely on Mexican cattle due to the New World Screwworm.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, notes that many heart-related conditions can be prevented through lifestyle changes.
Support policies that keep U.S. biofuels at the table—marine demand could materially lift corn grind, crush margins, and rural jobs.
FarmHER Katey Jo Evans joins us to share her journey from farm wife to entrepreneur and advocate for reducing food waste.
China is not one of our top suppliers of cooking oil, according to USDA ERS data, but does export a lot of used cooking oil to the U.S. for biofuel production.