Nebraska Lawmakers, Ag Leaders Say Argentine Beef Imports Could ‘sideline’ US Ranchers

By Grant Winterer

Nebraska lawmakers and beef producers are speaking out against the Trump administration’s recent decision to import an additional 80,000 tons of lean beef from Argentina.

In a statement, 3rd District Republican Congressman Adrian Smith argued that the policy does little to help a Nebraska industry that’s surging after a period of stagnation.

“While the United States holds historic low-inventory in cattle herds,” the statement reads, “we must focus on policies that strengthen the market and create long-term certainty for the entire supply chain."

Ranchers across the U.S. have culled their herds in recent years due to drought and fire, resulting in the lowest beef cattle numbers in about 75 years.

Closer to home, Mark McHargue, president of the Nebraska Farm Bureau, said he’s seen first hand the recent recovery of Nebraska’s beef industry, and thinks overregulation at the federal level wouldn't be helpful for growth.

“The fact that the beef sector is doing well is a very significant plus for Nebraska for our economy,” McHargue said. “So I think we have to be careful that we don't do anything at the federal level to substantially change that for our producers.”