American farmers and ranchers work hard to provide the world with high-quality, nutritious, and affordable food options, all while dealing with many challenges outside of their control. Agricultural markets are inherently volatile, and the high-risk nature of the agriculture industry means producers are particularly exposed. Recent headlines are a reminder of why American producers need as much certainty as we can provide.
New policy must be circumspect to avoid unintended consequences. I have serious concerns increasing imports of Argentine beef or other government intervention to influence the price of cattle may create such unintended consequences. I have brought my concerns to the administration, and I continue to be in regular contact with officials to share what Nebraskans already know: when outside forces unduly influence the market, it arbitrarily picks winners and losers.Too often, cattle ranchers are the ones who lose out.
Years of drought, barriers to international markets, and the threat of NewWorld Screwworm have contributed to a shrinking cattle market and 74-year-low inventories.
