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
In a post to social media, Trump said Venezuela will buy American agriculture products and will use the money from oil sales to make it happen.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
Rail strength is helping stabilize grain movement, but river and export slowdowns continue to limit overall logistics momentum.
Retail pricing confirms tight cattle supplies and supports continued leverage for producers, reinforcing the need for disciplined risk management.
China continues to buy U.S. soybeans toward its 12 MMT commitment, as analysts cite data gaps, delivery timing questions, and muted market reaction.
Seasonal boxed beef softness does not change the tight-supply outlook — leverage remains closer to the farm gate heading into 2026.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Tight feeder supplies and lower placements indicate continued support for the cattle market, with regional impacts heightened in Texas by reduced feeder imports.
National Land Realty’s Jeramy Stephens shares his outlook on farmland market trends, which remain under close watch as new federal assistance programs roll out — with experts analyzing potential impacts on land values, buying, and stability.
Michelle Perez shares more about the American Farmland Trust’s resource to help farmers and producers plan soil health improvements.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer outlines the key difference between previous ECAP payments and the Farm Bridge Assistance Program.
Jeff Johnston with CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange explains the growing role of Rural America in supporting the nation’s digital infrastructure.
FFA Central Region Vice President Claire Woeppel joins FFA Today to share her story and excitement to connect with FFA members nationwide.