U.S. Ranchers Criticize Trump's Proposal to Import Argentinian Beef Amid High Domestic Prices

President Donald Trump recently suggested the United States could purchase beef from Argentina to reduce stubbornly high prices for American consumers, a proposal that has drawn sharp criticism from U.S. agricultural groups. Speaking aboard Air Force One on Sunday, October 20, 2025, Trump stated, "We would buy some beef from Argentina. If we do that, that will bring our beef prices down." The President also indicated the move would support Argentina, a "very good ally," and its beleaguered President Javier Milei.

U.S. beef prices have reached record highs this year, fueled by factors such as severe drought, depleted domestic cattle herds, and reduced imports from Mexico due to a flesh-eating pest affecting cattle. However, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) swiftly condemned the proposal. Colin Woodall, CEO of the NCBA, stated, "This plan only creates chaos at a critical time of the year for American cattle producers, while doing nothing to lower grocery store prices."

Economists have also expressed skepticism regarding the proposal's potential impact on U.S. prices. They note that Argentina accounted for only about 2% of total U.S. beef imports last year, suggesting that increased imports would be unlikely to "materially move the needle in the market." Concerns were also raised that such imports could discourage U.S. producers from expanding their herds, which are currently at their lowest level in nearly 75 years.

The suggestion comes amidst the Trump administration's broader efforts to support Argentina's economy, including a $20 billion credit swap line and additional financing ahead of Argentina's midterm elections. This support for President Milei has previously drawn ire from U.S. soybean farmers, who saw China shift its soybean purchases to Argentina after the South American nation suspended export taxes. U.S. agricultural groups, including the National Farmers Union, expressed concern that the plan would harm rural America and reward a nation that has an imbalanced trade relationship with the U.S.