Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation President Todd Fornstrom commented on the presidential proclamation issued August 26 by President Trump that allows beef imports to increase by more than 660 million pounds – over a 90-day period.

“This decision is disappointing. We urge the President to consider the impacts it will have on American consumers and American beef producers and reverse this decision. Increased beef imports will not reduce the price the consumer pays at the retail counter and disrupts the American beef market.”

Inflation on food has been a long-term issue. Consumers continue to see this every week in the grocery store. Inflation is a long-term situation and increasing imports isn’t going to help the price of beef at the retail counter. This decision is a blow to the focus on rebuilding American beef herds. Cattle production is impacted by many different components including drought and consolidation in the packing industry and is necessary to maintain a strong domestic food supply.”