By Andi Anderson
The Ohio Expo Center is welcoming around 30,000 attendees for the state’s largest beef cattle expo, even as the industry faces potential export challenges due to possible tariffs from Canada and Europe.
The Ohio Cattlemen’s Association, led by Executive Director Elizabeth Harsh, is keeping a close watch on developments that could impact beef trade.
“We are getting a lot of questions and are closely monitoring that issue. It’s very fluid,” said Harsh. She added that the organization is working closely with national partners to provide advice and address concerns as the situation evolves.
Harsh emphasized that global beef exports play a major role in the industry’s financial success. For each fed animal sold, export markets bring in more than $400 per head. The U.S. exports over $10 billion in beef products annually, and international markets remain essential for Ohio’s beef economy.
Despite the uncertainty, Harsh said the current business climate is strong. “Cattle prices have been tremendous in the last year,” she said, adding that demand remains high and it is a good time to be in the beef business. However, she acknowledged that profit margins are tightening — a normal part of the industry cycle.
The association is also actively involved in policy discussions at both the state and federal levels. Harsh stated, “Business climate and those pocketbook issues are what we talk about. The things that really impact a family's ability to make a living on the farm.”
As the expo continues, Ohio beef producers are optimistic about the future, while staying alert to changes in trade policy. The Cattlemen’s Association remains committed to supporting farm families through both opportunity and challenge.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Ohio, Business, Livestock, Beef Cattle