Trump Doubles Down on Possible Argentine Beef Imports

October 20, 2025

President Donald Trump is again signaling that the United States may look to Argentina for beef imports as part of his plan to lower food prices for American consumers. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump told the Associated Press that bringing in a limited amount of Argentine beef could “bring our beef prices down” and help fight inflation.

The comments come just days after Trump’s earlier remarks on cutting beef prices caused cattle futures to tumble. Market analysts say the speculation around potential import deals created uncertainty among U.S. producers already dealing with tight margins and high input costs.

When questioned by reporters about whether such a deal could hurt American ranchers, Trump defended the idea, emphasizing Argentina’s economic struggles.

“They’re fighting for their life,” he said. “They have no money. They’re fighting so hard to survive. If I can help them survive in a free world, I will.”

Trump said that while grocery and energy prices have dropped in recent months, beef remains stubbornly high. “The only price we have to tie is beef,” he said. “If we buy some beef — not much — from Argentina, it would help them and help bring our prices down.”

He also voiced support for Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, describing him as a strong ally working to reform the country’s struggling economy.

“I happen to like the president of Argentina,” Trump said. “He’s trying to do the best he can.”

Trump added that he sees a broader political shift underway in the region. “South American countries are starting to turn toward us,” he said. “They’re getting away from socialism — it’s pretty amazing.”

U.S. cattle ranchers, however, are voicing concern about the news. Many fear that importing beef from Argentina could undercut domestic producers already facing high feed and input costs. The uncertainty surrounding Trump’s remarks sent cattle markets on a downward trend late last week.