Retaliatory tariffs imposed by China have effectively halted U.S. exports of beef and pork, creating serious financial risks for the red meat industry, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).
Erin Borror, USMEF Vice President of Economic Analysis, reported that the effective duty rate on U.S. pork and pork variety meats now stands at 172%, while U.S. beef and beef variety meats face a 147% tariff. Borror warned that the loss of access to China could cost the pork industry an estimated $8 to $10 per head in export value and result in about $1 billion in annual losses. For beef, the impact could exceed $4 billion annually, putting more than $150 per fed steer or heifer at risk.
“There’s a mad scramble to find new homes for products specifically produced and labeled for China,” said Borror. She explained that China purchases certain beef and pork items—such as short plate, rib fingers, pork feet, and intestines—at premiums unmatched by other markets, making it difficult to redirect these products elsewhere.
The situation is further complicated by China’s failure to renew export registrations for approximately 400 U.S. beef processing facilities and nine pork plants, effectively restricting shipments even if tariffs were to be lifted.
Borror emphasized that without China’s demand and the necessary facility approvals, U.S. red meat exports face significant ongoing barriers.
