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
Nebraska Cattlemen’s Association President Craig Uden shares the latest on Nebraska wildfire conditions, discusses challenges facing producers, and outlines relief efforts underway.
Ranchers have a lot going on at the moment, but some ‘friendly’ news could be coming with this month’s Cattle-on-Feed Report from the USDA.
Energy risks could reshape global ag trade flows.
The ag trade deficit is narrowing, but export competition remains strong.
Agricultural groups warn that the deal could limit competition and raise transportation costs for farmers
The Trump Administration’s new rule limiting CDL renewals for immigrant truckers is seeing mixed reactions in agriculture. While some support the change, it is raising concerns about higher freight costs and impacts on U.S. grain export competitiveness.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Farm legal expert Roger McEowen discusses the EPA’s rescission of the 2009 endangerment finding on greenhouse gases and what it could mean for agriculture and rural America.
Chef and influencer Marcia Smart joined us to discuss Italian-inspired beef dishes, nutrition for active lifestyles, and how global events shape home cooking.
The USDA says the framework is about “ending abusive government overreach” and “protecting farmers, families, and private property.”
Farm numbers still favor small operations, but production, resilience, and risk management are increasingly concentrated among fewer, larger farms.
Wed, 2/18/26 – 7:30 PM ET