The Trump administration is considering purchasing beef from Argentina to help lower U.S. retail prices according to comments made from Air Force One on Sunday. This move has sparked concern among industry leaders.

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Senior Vice President Ethan Lane said South American nations have not been reliable trading partners. He warns that these imports could unsettle U.S. producers. Lane acknowledges consumer frustration with high grocery prices but feels market forces, not foreign imports, should drive price adjustments.

R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard also criticized the proposal. He called it a short-term fix that could harm the long-term health of the domestic cattle industry. Bullard urged the administration to shield U.S. ranchers from import-driven price suppression so the sector can recover and meet domestic demand.

Mississippi State University Agricultural Economist Josh Maples noted that the lack of clarity surrounding the proposal is fueling market uncertainty, leading to increased volatility. Cattle futures reflected this unease, falling sharply at the end of last week before showing more caution at the start of the current trading week.

Read more about industry reaction to the proposal to import beef from Argentina here.