According to Fortune magazine, the original intention of the U.S. imposing tariffs was to protect domestic farmers. Now, Trump has announced the removal of these tariffs, and the root cause lies in the fact that beef prices for American consumers have risen significantly.
Since 2020, U.S. beef prices have surged from around $1.8 per pound to $7. A decline in herd numbers, strong market demand, and disrupted supply chains have collectively driven up prices. Previously, the U.S. further restricted imports using tariff measures, imposing a steep 50% tariff on Brazilian beef.
Currently, Trump has temporarily relaxed the policy, allowing 300,000 tons of meat to enter duty-free to help stabilize domestic meat prices. He stated that importers have agreed to supply goods at prices 25% below market levels.
This incident serves as a classic example of the pitfalls of trade protectionism: the government first raised import costs and supported domestic producers, ultimately shifting the burden onto ordinary consumers. Now, to alleviate pressure on people's livelihoods, it urgently opens up cheap imports—ironically leaving originally protected American farmers dissatisfied.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1874589938166796/
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