The U.S. beef industry is urging the Trump administration to push South Korea to ease its restrictions on beef imports from cattle older than 30 months, raising concerns that President Trump could use the issue to pressure Seoul into fully opening its market.
On March 11, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) submitted comments to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), arguing that while South Korea considers the 30-month age limit a sensitive issue, it should not be ignored. The group noted that China, Japan, and Taiwan have already lifted similar restrictions and urged Washington to negotiate with Seoul for a more science-based trade policy.
South Korea began importing U.S. beef without restrictions in 2001 but imposed a complete ban in 2003 after a case of mad cow disease was detected in the United States. Following negotiations in 2008, Seoul agreed to resume imports but limited them to beef from cattle younger than 30 months.
The U.S. beef industry has repeatedly called for the removal of the restriction. Since 2013, the USTR has stated in its annual National Trade Estimate Report that South Korea’s import rule was a “temporary measure” and has consistently pushed for full market access. Japan lifted its 30-month restriction on U.S. beef in 2019.
Despite ongoing pressure from U.S. beef producers and trade officials, Washington has yet to formally request a renegotiation of the agreement. A South Korean Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs official said that if the U.S. government were to officially propose talks, Seoul would demand scientific verification and conduct a thorough review, which could take time.
However, concerns are growing that the Trump administration, known for its aggressive trade policies, may take a tougher stance. The USTR is set to submit a report by April 1 identifying unfair trade practices among key partners and recommending corrective measures. Analysts warn that South Korea’s beef import restrictions could be included, potentially escalating trade tensions.
