China's Lockout of U.S. Beef a Burning Issue at CattleCon in Nashville

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U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) leaders were on hand as the cattle industry gathered in Nashville for the 2026 Cattle Industry Convention. Top of mind for the industry was the continued lockout of U.S. beef in the China market.

USMEF Vice President of Economic Analysis Erin Borror explained there has been little progress on the issue. China continues to refuse to renew registrations for U.S. beef production and cold storage facilities. Most U.S. beef production has been locked out of China since March. Borror explained that, even with low cattle inventory, access to China is vital for maintaining value across the carcass.

USMEF Chair Jay Theiler of Agri Beef Co. recently traveled to Washington, DC with other USMEF leaders to talk with USDA and Office of the U.S. Trade Representative officials about the importance of regaining China access. Theiler said the government is fully engaged on the issue and understands the importance to U.S. producers.

TRANSCRIPT