WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Steve Daines returned from China, emphasizing the need to halt the flow of materials used to make fentanyl from China to Mexico.
He also engaged in discussions with the Chinese premier and vice foreign minister, focusing on trade tariffs and their impact on Montana farmers and ranchers, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by Montana’s beef industry.
“We need to see more of the beef exports be ultimately brought to the finish line,” Daines said, expressing concerns about China’s barriers to importing U.S. meat.
The senator pointed out the longstanding issue of import halts on beef from the United States into China, which many politicians consider an unfair trade barrier.
In a previous effort to promote Montana beef, Daines delivered a cooler full of steaks to Chinese officials, sparking interest from China’s largest online grocer. However, he noted that China fell short of committing $200 billion in additional resources.
The senator stressed the importance of renewing expired licenses that allow the U.S. to process and ship beef to China.
“We need to renew these licenses and continue supplying that Chinese market with U.S. beef,” Daines emphasized.
The senator reflected on the historical context of U.S.-China trade talks, mentioning Mike Mansfield’s role in the 1970s. He believes it’s crucial for Montanans to have a voice in these ongoing conversations.
