Nebraska cattle producers push back on Trump’s plan to increase tariff-free beef imports

Lincoln, Neb. (KLKN) — Nebraska farmers and ranchers are pushing back on President Donald Trump’s plan to temporarily allow more tariff-free foreign beef into the U.S.

Trump says the move is meant to lower beef prices for Americans.

For the next 90 days, the U.S. will allow up to 300,000 metric tons of product for ground beef to be imported without an out-of-quota tariff.

Trump says that beef will be sold at 25% below current market prices.

But Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue says the move could drive down cattle prices for producers.

He also questions whether consumers will see much relief.

“It is doubtful this influx makes much of a difference on retail prices,” McHargue said.

Nebraska Cattlemen President Craig Uden says the announcement could create more uncertainty for producers.

Sen. Pete Ricketts also pushed back on the plan.

“Short-term policy shifts do not equal long-term solutions. Flooding the market with lower-quality beef compromises Nebraska farmers and ranchers,” Ricketts said.

A White House official says the move is a short-term effort to meet demand for more affordable ground beef.