ICA Responds to Announcement on Foreign Beef Imports

Contact: Iowa Cattlemen's Association, 515-296-2266, Contact Us.

The Iowa Cattlemen's Association President Craig Moss issued the following statement in response to President Trump's post regarding beef imports:

"President Trump's announcement today about importing foreign beef is extremely disappointing to the Iowa Cattlemen's Association and its members. The President's comments and decisions have created unnecessary market volatility today. The drop in the markets will directly impact their profitability and bottom line, and in turn impacts decisions our producers are making about expanding their cattle herds. We believe the government should avoid intervention and let the market work," said Craig Moss, Iowa Cattlemen's Association president. "Members of the Iowa Cattlemen's Association have been reaching out to express their concerns. Just a week ago, many cattle feeders in the state lost one of their marketing options with the closing of Tyson's Joslin plant; today they are taking another hit with this announcement. What we know is that consumer demand for the high-quality beef raised by U.S. producers has remained strong. Consumers have been willing to pay for beef. Simply put, it is supply and demand economics. Iowa's cattle industry is uniquely positioned to play a significant role in expanding the nation's cattle herd. There is no better place to grow than right here in Iowa. We have productive pastureland, forage and feed resources, strong crop and livestock integration, and the infrastructure needed to support that growth."

As this story continues to unfold, the Iowa Cattlemen's Association will remain diligent in advocating on behalf of our members and making their voices heard.