Trump’s argentina beef import deal faces criticism from ranchers and climate experts who say it won’t lower prices

President Donald Trump’s recent executive order to increase beef imports from Argentina by 80,000 metric tons this year is drawing sharp criticism from both American cattle ranchers and environmental advocates. The tariff-free deal, promoted as a way to lower grocery store beef prices for consumers, has sparked opposition from key Republican allies and trade groups who argue it undermines U.S. producers.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Republican Senator Deb Fischer of Nebraska have condemned the move, saying it “sidelines” American ranchers. Meanwhile, economists doubt the plan will achieve its stated goal of reducing prices. David Ortega, a professor at Michigan State University, notes the additional imports represent less than 1% of total U.S. beef supply, making any price impact minimal.

Environmental experts warn the deal could have serious climate consequences. Stephanie Feldstein from the Center for Biological Diversity argues that expanding beef production contradicts Argentina’s climate commitments, as cattle ranching is a major source of methane emissions and land use impacts. The increased demand may force Argentine producers to intensify operations or expand into sensitive ecosystems.

The trade agreement highlights broader tensions in global food systems, where climate change is disrupting agricultural production through droughts and extreme weather while demand for animal protein continues rising. As both countries face cattle supply challenges due to climate impacts, experts like University of Iowa’s Silvia Secchi suggest the real solution lies in reducing beef consumption rather than simply shifting production locations.