Experts Say Increased Argentina Beef Imports Won’t Lower Consumer Costs

President Trump’s executive order aims to increase U.S. imports of beef from Argentina by allowing an additional 80,000 metric tons of tariff-free beef, primarily for ground beef production. However, experts like food economist David Ortega warn that this represents only 0.6% of the U.S. beef supply and is unlikely to significantly affect prices, which have risen due to extreme weather reducing cattle supply. Current beef prices average $6.69 per pound, up 19% from last year, driven by increased demand and supply challenges. Experts suggest that rebuilding the cattle supply will be essential to effectively lower prices in the long term.

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