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As a sixth-generation cattle producer in southern Indiana, I've seen firsthand what works and what doesn't for America's farm families. For years, we've heard promises about "leveling the playing field" when it comes to international trade—but very few of those promises ever made it past the headlines.
That's why the new trade agreements announced by the Trump administration this week are such a big deal for farmers and ranchers.
Last week's deal with the United Kingdom will, for the first time in decades, allow American cattle producers to export more beef with zero tariffs. That's right—no tariffs, no strings, no bureaucratic delay. Just American beef heading overseas to meet growing demand, backed by the highest standards in the world and a brand of quality that sells itself.
And now, thanks to a newly announced agreement with China, we're seeing even more opportunity open up for U.S. agriculture. This deal reduces long-standing regulatory barriers and opens the door for expanded beef and poultry exports—a move expected to deliver billions in added export potential. For producers like me, it's proof that when America gets tough at the negotiating table, we all win.
These agreements are a tremendous win for cattle producers across the country. The U.K. deal alone is expected to boost U.S. agricultural exports by $250 million per year. That's not government spending—that's real revenue for real producers, the kind of deal that supports rural jobs and puts money back in the hands of America's farmers and ranchers.
For too long, our overseas competitors had the upper hand. While we faced tariff walls and regulatory hurdles, countries like Brazil and Australia were feeding foreign markets with cheaper access and fewer restrictions. It wasn't because their beef was better—it was because the system was rigged.
These new trade deals begin to change that. They show that American agriculture finally has a seat at the table—and we have a president who knows how to negotiate and fight for us.
President Trump has once again proven he's a champion for American agriculture. He understands that trade should work for American workers—not against them. Instead of letting other countries walk all over us, he's putting America first and making sure our producers get the fair treatment they deserve. Time and again, he's stood up for the farm community, and these agreements are just the latest example.
This isn't just about one or two countries—it's about setting the tone for what's to come. It's about sending a message to the world that American agriculture is done playing defense. We're not going to sit quietly while other countries manipulate trade, dump inferior goods into our markets, or undercut our producers. We're going to fight for fair access. We're going to win new markets. And we're going to do it with the best beef on the planet.
Here in Indiana, that means growth. Growth for our producers. Growth for our processors. And growth for our next generation of farm families who are watching closely to see whether this industry has a future.
The answer is yes—but only if we keep up this momentum. These trade wins are just the start. We need more bilateral agreements and more aggressive negotiations.
Because when you strip away the politics, the truth about our industry is really simple: American cattle producers don't want handouts. We don't want special treatment. We just want a fair shot.
A fair shot to compete. A fair shot to grow. And a fair shot to feed the world with American beef that's raised with pride, care, and unmatched quality.
To the Trump administration, which made these deals happen: thank you. To the rest of the world: get ready. American beef is back on the global stage—and we're just getting started.
Todd Armstrong is the owner of Armstrong Cattle & Crops in Fredericksburg, Indiana.
The views expressed in this article are the writer's own.
