Illinois meat industry discusses successes, challenges in face of tariffs – Washington Examiner
The Illinois meat industry is facing concerns over potential tariffs that could impact its market stability. During a recent hearing with the Illinois House Agriculture and Conservation Committee, industry representatives discussed both successes and challenges stemming from trade policies, particularly those initiated under President Trump. Jennifer Tyree of the Illinois Pork Producers Association emphasized that their primary focus is on maintaining market share, as approximately 30% of pork products are exported, contributing substantially to the state’s economy, valued at around $13.8 billion, and supporting over 57,000 jobs.
Despite uncertainties, the beef sector in Illinois is reportedly thriving, with strong market prices benefitting cattle producers. Josh St. Peters from the Illinois Beef Association noted that the state has around one million cattle and approximately 14,000 family farms. He advocated for legislative support to protect and sustain the beef industry in light of existing challenges. The meeting underscored the necessity for producers to adapt to market fluctuations while striving to preserve their competitive edge amidst tariff-related pressures.
Illinois meat industry discusses successes, challenges in face of tariffs
(The Center Square) — Illinois’ meat producers say they are concerned about the prospect of tariffs on their industry, but they’re working to maintain their market share.
President Donald Trump’s tariff policies continue to bring uncertainty to various markets, including agricultural markets and exports.
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During an Illinois House Agriculture and Conservation Committee hearing Tuesday afternoon, Jennifer Tyree with the Illinois Pork Producers Association laid out the strengths in her industry.
To the question of prospective tariffs, Tyree said they are a big concern they’re monitoring closely, but Illinois’ pork industry is focused on maintaining their market share.
“Closer to 30% of our product is exported,” Tyree said. “At this point we are holding our own. We are just trying very hard to continue to keep that market share because I think what is our biggest concern is if we lose market share, it’s very hard to get it back.”
Illinois’ pork industry touts an estimated $13.8 billion for the state’s economy and supports more than 57,000 jobs.
Illinois Beef Association Executive Vice President Josh St. Peters told committee members even with challenges, Illinois’ beef production is growing.
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“Market prices have actually been very strong for beef production right now and it’s a good time to be feeding and selling cattle,” St. Peters said. “It’s helping buoy farms in Illinois while other commodity prices have been on the decline. But we do need help protecting and preserving this opportunity.”
St. Peters said there are around a million head of cattle in Illinois on any given day spread across approximately 14,000 family farms. He encouraged legislators to support the beef industry.
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