The American Farm Bureau Federation is warning that President Trump’s plan to import up to 300,000 metric tons of beef over 90 days could hurt ranchers who are rebuilding herds after years of drought. Farm Bureau economists say the timing is especially concerning because about 70 percent of spring-born calves are typically sold between September and November. A surge of lower-priced imported beef could pressure cattle prices just as ranchers decide whether to expand their herds. Farm Bureau says cow-calf production costs reached a record $1,762 per head in 2025, up nearly 30 percent from 2020. In a letter to Trump, Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall said importing beef at a 25 percent discount could discourage ranchers from making long-term investments. “Bringing down the price of cattle will not bring the price of beef down for American families,” Duvall wrote.
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