Tariffs Needed to Correct Fair Trade for Cattle Producers

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is backing President Donald Trump's tariff strategy. Kent Bacus executive director of government affairs, explains how the approach aims to create a more level playing field for US producers,

“And, while we are not, you know, historic fans of tariffs, we have to realize the situation we're in. You know, time is not really a luxury that we can afford, and we need to, we need to bring these trade partners to the table as quickly as possible. So this is not just about opening new markets or trying to get some of those deals which we do support. This is about holding trade partners accountable for a lot of the non-tariff barriers that they've applied all the other restrictions, and for them, not, you know, really living up to the terms of the deals they've made with the United States.”

Bacus points out that experts say it's a time for a reset in global trade relationships, and that shift may already be underway.

“While many countries have long enjoyed free access to the US market, American producers continue to face major trade barriers abroad. Are we having, you know, equal access? Is there a level playing field? We know that the US is going to consume more than other countries, but what kind of access do we have, and can we improve that?”

Kent Bacus with the National Cattlemen's Beef Association.