More US Beef Plants May Close as Cattle Herds Keep Tightening

Core Insights - American beef plants are facing significant challenges due to a historically low number of cattle, leading to operational losses for beef processors and higher steak prices for consumers [1][3][4] Industry Overview - Cattle placements in US feedlots are projected to drop to the lowest levels for November since 2015, following record low placements in October [2] - The ongoing halt of Mexican cattle shipments due to the screwworm pest is exacerbating supply issues, impacting beef processors and leading to potential plant closures [3][5] Company Impact - Tyson Foods Inc., the largest meatpacker in the US, has announced the closure of a beef plant in Nebraska and reduced operations at a Texas facility, highlighting the industry's struggles [4] - Other major plants may also close in the next 18 months due to supply pressures, particularly in the South where cattle are often sourced from Mexico [5] Government Actions - The Trump administration has attempted to address record beef prices through various measures, including lifting tariffs on Brazilian beef imports, but imports still only account for about 17% of the US supply [6] - The USDA is actively responding to the screwworm issue, which has led to the suspension of livestock shipments from Mexico since July [9][10] Future Outlook - Experts suggest that reopening the southern border for live cattle shipments is crucial for stabilizing beef prices, as current imports do not sufficiently meet demand [7][13] - Rebuilding the US cattle herd is seen as essential for increasing supply, but this process is expected to take time [14]