Montana Beef Council Engages Mexico to Bolster U.S. Beef Exports
The Montana Beef Council, in collaboration with USMEF, sent ranchers to Mexico to strengthen U.S. beef export ties. The initiative focuses on maintaining and expanding markets, despite tariffs impacting exporters. The ranchers engaged at Expo Carnes 25 and emphasized the importance of variety meats, which constitute a significant portion of U.S. beef exports to Mexico and Japan.
The Montana Beef Council, alongside the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), recently sent local ranchers to Mexico to engage in discussions aimed at enhancing U.S. beef exports. The primary objective of this initiative was to solidify the relationship between the U.S. and Mexican beef markets, emphasizing both the maintenance and growth of exports to Mexico, a key destination for U.S. beef products.
USMEF’s mission encompasses the promotion of U.S. beef globally, supported by contributions from all U.S. beef producers. Ranchers invest in a marketing fund, which aids in marketing American beef in international spheres. Additionally, both Canada and Mexico are pivotal to the Montana beef industry, with Canada operating feedlots in Montana for cattle finishing before processing.
The ranchers attended Expo Carnes 25, an important meat trade show held in Monterrey, Mexico. This event coincided with the introduction of a new 25% tariff on specific goods by President Trump, creating uncertainty for exporters in attendance.
Justin Iverson, a cattle rancher from Potomac and chair of the Montana Beef Council, commented on the current situation, stating, “As we were speaking, the gentleman said, ‘listen, we don’t know where things are gonna go quite yet. My presentation was accurate a half hour ago, and it’s no longer accurate.’” He expressed the ongoing anticipation related to the tariffs, noting that exports under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement likely remain unaffected.
Mexico is a vital market for various U.S. beef products, including premium cuts and variety meats such as tongue and liver. Iverson emphasized the significance of variety meats, which make up the bulk of the $1.2 billion worth of beef imported by Mexico yearly, even if they are less popular in the U.S.
In the export process, each rancher contributes to USMEF’s efforts, paying a dollar for every head of cattle exported—half of which supports the Montana Council and the national marketing initiatives. Iverson remarked, “All those extra pieces that we’re too squeamish to eat, somebody will eat that and provide high value, nutritious protein to their families.”
Moreover, he noted that beef tongues are particularly desired in Japan, with U.S. production primarily exported to meet that demand. The promotion and exportation of U.S. beef, covering various cuts, is essential for the sustainability of Montana’s beef sector and fostering robust international trade partnerships. Amidst changing trade conditions, the Montana Beef Council and USMEF are dedicated to bolstering support for ranchers and addressing global demand for U.S. beef.
In conclusion, the Montana Beef Council’s proactive approach to strengthening ties with Mexico through collaborative efforts with USMEF underscores the strategic importance of international markets for U.S. beef products. As ranchers adapt to evolving trade conditions, their contributions not only foster the local industry but also highlight the diverse demand for U.S. beef in global markets. Continuous engagement, like participation in major trade shows, is crucial for maintaining competitive advantages and international relationships.
Original Source: nbcmontana.com
