Colorado Beef Industry’s Statement on Plan to Reduce Tariffs on Beef Imports
Aurora, Colo. – Today, the Colorado Livestock Association (CLA) and the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) are joining together to oppose the President’s plan to ease beef tariffs. The President and his administration have consistently espoused their desire to promote growth in the United States cattle herd; with cattle numbers at a 75-year low, this announcement is likely to have the opposite effect.
CLA and CCA both support a free market environment and recognize the need for a robust import and export market. Still, at a time of significant uncertainty, Colorado producers need as much stability and clarity as possible. Despite drought and natural disasters, they continue to produce high-quality beef products, which is driving strong consumer demand. Uncertainty in the markets and a lack of clarity from the administration on tariff policies that may harm producers is deepening concerns, particularly as many producers begin making important livestock marketing decisions.
Together, CLA and CCA are calling on President Trump to reconsider the proposed easing of tariffs, engage directly with cattle producers before advancing policies that could further disrupt livestock markets, and exercise greater caution when promoting policies that can have immediate effects on livestock markets.
For more information, contact:
Colorado Livestock Association: Jessica Lemmel jlemmel@coloradolivestock.org
Colorado Cattlemen’s Association: Sarah Dideriksen sarah@coloradocattle.org