Since returning to office in January, President Trump has once again brought trade policy to the forefront of national discussion. His previous use of tariffs is now facing scrutiny from the U.S. Court of International Trade, reigniting debate over their impact. But even without new actions, agriculture was already bracing for fresh trade challenges under Trump 2.0. One of the most significant will be the scheduled review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), a deal that has generally held up but has faced its share of challenges along the way.
Tanner Beymer with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says the cattle and beef industries have generally benefited under the USMCA. He notes that both Mexico and Canada remain two of the U.S. beef industry’s most important and reliable trading partners. Beymer says the upcoming review is an opportunity to reinforce those relationships and ensure continued market access and growth.
One current challenge in the U.S.-Mexico trade relationship is the resurgence of the New World Screwworm. Beymer says the situation has shown how trading partners can work together to protect the food supply while addressing the issue in a coordinated way. He adds that this kind of cooperation is key to keeping livestock producers in the U.S. and Canada safe.
With the USMCA review on the horizon, the cattle industry is emphasizing the importance of consistency and collaboration. The goal is to build on past progress while preparing for the challenges ahead.
