Cattle Australia has described the 10 per cent tariff on Australian exports as a disappointing decision that flies in the face of decades of hard work in opening markets and removing trade barriers, not just in the US, but around the world.
CEO Dr Chris Parker said the US decision was based on flawed logic, and had caused confusion in the media and the community.
“Firstly, the US is not banning Australian beef – this has been confirmed this morning by the Australian Government,” he said.
“Secondly, and despite what President Donald Trump said in his press conference, Australia does not have a ban in place for US beef. The US has had access to the Australian market since 2019, provided it could demonstrate its beef came from cattle born, raised and slaughtered in the US.
“These are the same conditions that the US imposes on Australian exporters. However, the US industry has not been able to meet these standards and now wishes to change the rules to include beef from cattle born in Mexico and Canada.
“Thirdly, these tariffs will actually harm US consumers and their cattle industry. American beef producers can’t meet their domestic demand, and Australia is the preferred supplier to fill the shortfall of high-quality grassfed steaks. Our lean beef exports are also crucial – it is blended with local fatty trim to create the hamburgers that every American knows and loves.
“I am in the US this week making these points to American cattlemen and officials alike. Rest assured, CA will continue to make the case for market access around the world and will fight to have these new US tariffs removed.”