The Montana Beef Council, with USMEF, sent ranchers to Mexico to strengthen U.S. beef exports. They attended Expo Carnes 25 amidst tariff uncertainties. Ranchers contribute to export efforts; variety meats are a significant portion of exports to Mexico. Rancher Justin Iverson emphasized the importance of these products and international relationships as vital to sustaining the industry.
The Montana Beef Council, in partnership with the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), recently dispatched local ranchers to Mexico to enhance U.S. beef exports. This initiative aims to fortify connections between the beef markets of the U.S. and Mexico, emphasizing the importance of increasing exports to Mexico, a major market for U.S. beef products.
USMEF is dedicated to promoting U.S. beef globally, with every beef producer contributing to this marketing fund. Ranchers’ financial contributions support efforts to market American beef internationally. Both Mexico and Canada are integral to Montana’s beef sector, with Canadian feedlots operating in Montana for cattle finishing prior to processing.
Ranchers participated in Expo Carnes 25, a significant meat trade show in Monterrey, Mexico. This event occurred amidst uncertainty due to a 25% tariff on certain goods imposed by President Trump, impacting exporters at the time.
During the trip, Justin Iverson, a cattle rancher and chair of the Montana Beef Council, remarked on the volatility of the trade environment, indicating that information rapidly changes. He noted, “As we were speaking, the gentleman said, ‘listen, we don’t know where things are gonna go quite yet… but as it looks right now, the agricultural products… should be untouched by the new tariffs.’”
Mexico is a vital consumer of various U.S. beef products, including premium cuts and variety meats, which totaled approximately $1.2 billion in imports annually. Iverson emphasized the significance of these variety meats, which are not widely consumed in the U.S. but are highly valued in international markets.
Each rancher involved in the export process contributes $1 to the USMEF for every cattle head exported. This funding is split between the Montana Council and national marketing efforts. Iverson underscored the value of variety meats stating, “All those extra pieces that we’re too squeamish to eat… provide high value, nutritious protein to their families.”
He further noted that U.S. beef tongues are particularly popular in Japan, with the majority of tongues produced in the U.S. exported there. The promotion of U.S. beef, including various cuts, is essential for sustaining Montana’s beef industry and maintaining robust international relationships. The Montana Beef Council and USMEF remain dedicated to supporting ranchers and addressing the evolving global demand for U.S. beef.
The Montana Beef Council’s participation in Expo Carnes 25 highlights the importance of international engagement in sustaining the beef industry. By addressing changes in trade, collaborating with USMEF, and promoting a diverse range of products, the council aims to fortify its market share in Mexico. As the landscape continues to shift, ensuring support for ranchers and addressing international demand remains paramount for the future of Montana’s beef exports.
Original Source: nbcmontana.com
