Flooding Market with Argentinian Beef Is Not America First: Governor Polis Calls on President Trump Not to Hurt to Colorado Ranchers, American Beef

DENVER - In reaction to President Trump's intent to purchase massive amounts of Argentinian Beef, Governor Polis released the following statement on the thoughtless plan that will harm Colorado ranchers and the American beef industry.

"If the President floods the market with Argentinian beef, he will crush hardworking Colorado farmers and ranchers, turning his back on the industry that helps drive our western economy and puts food on our tables. On the heels of a $20 billion bailout for Argentina during a government shutdown, when American families are facing hunger and skyrocketing health care costs, it's even worse to intentionally harm American farmers. This thoughtless move would take business from American farmers and ranchers to prop up the president's friend, and I like Javier Milei as much as the next guy and he has great hair, but helping him doesn't justify hurting ranchers. If the President moves forward, it will be a slap in the face to hardworking producers across the entire nation," said Governor Polis.

"Beef is Colorado's number one agricultural commodity and top export. Importing cheap Argentinian beef will undercut Colorado producers while also hurting their market access, lowering the price of cattle and making business planning harder for the future," said Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg. "Colorado producers are leading in stewardship and sustainability, and our high standards for animal husbandry and quality are what consumers truly want. Federal interference and the timing of announcements regarding imports only exacerbate the struggles of our domestic producers, impacting their ability to rebuild herds and receive fair prices for their cattle. The federal government should focus more on expanding market opportunities for American beef, which is our focus here in Colorado."

Governor Polis also called on the federal government to ensure that any foreign beef purchased is labeled with its country of origin. Consumers have the right to know if they are purchasing American-raised or international beef. Colorado is a net exporter of meat, exporting $1.3 billion of beef in 2024. Earlier this fall, Governor Polis released a state report on the disastrous impacts of Trump's Tariff taxes. This report outlines that agriculture is one of Colorado's industries most negatively impacted by Trump's tariffs.

Colorado is 5th in the nation for beef exports. Beef is among Colorado's largest exports and is a top driver of Colorado's agricultural economy. In 2024, the U.S. exported a total of $10.45 billion in beef and beef products around the world. Our top export countries for beef are Mexico, Canada, South Korea, Japan, China, all countries now facing these Trump on-again off off-again tariffs. Colorado's other largest agricultural commodities, including dairy, wheat, and corn, all rely on export markets to do business.

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