Mixed signals in the US

The US import market shows “two faces,” a trader said. Grass-fed or organic programs have resumed normal flow after the Trump tariffs: importers absorb the 10% duty or—thanks to China’s recent upswing—are willing to pay a bit more. Example: grass-fed knuckle from the region sold at US$/t 6,500-6,700 FOB outside quota (36.4% duty applies).

By contrast, manufacturing beef or forequarter blocks are “much heavier. Buyers don’t want to pay less—they just show very little buying interest,” he summarized, citing logistical and commercial headaches from importing beef with extra costs.