"We will now sell a lot to Australia, as there is irrefutable evidence that US beef is the safest and best in the world," Trump wrote on Truth Social on 24/7. He also said other countries refusing to buy US beef "are being warned."

The statement followed the Australian Department of Agriculture's announcement on 23/7 that improvements in the US cattle control and traceability system now allow Australia to accept cattle born in Canada and Mexico and slaughtered in the US.

Australia has restricted US beef imports since 2003 due to concerns about mad cow disease. In 2019, the country allowed imports to resume but limited them to cattle born, raised, and slaughtered entirely within the US.

A cattle auction in Moss Vale, Australia on 3/4. Photo: Reuters

A cattle auction in Moss Vale, Australia on 3/4. Photo: Reuters

Despite Trump's statement, analysts predict US beef exports to Australia won't significantly increase. Australia is a major beef producer and exporter with much lower prices, according to Reuters.

Last year, Australia exported nearly 400,000 tons of beef worth 2.9 billion USD to the US, while importing only 269 tons from its counterpart. Additionally, the US cattle industry is experiencing declining production due to drought, forcing it to increase purchases from abroad.

In overall bilateral trade, Australia has a trade deficit with the US and faces a 10% tariff on all exports, and 50% on steel and aluminum. Trump also threatened to impose a 200% tariff on pharmaceuticals.

Australian officials stated the easing of US beef import restrictions is unrelated to trade negotiations and is the result of a multi-year review of US biosecurity measures.

When asked if the decision would help reach an agreement with the US, Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell said, "Not really." "We're not doing this to persuade the Americans to a deal," he said.

Phien An (according to Reuters)