Beef sector caught in the crossfire of Trump tariff threats [Video]

Ahead of the U.S. president-elect’s rapidly approaching inauguration, many Canadians are anxiously awaiting what could be a turbulent start to a second Donald Trump term, as threats of sweeping tariffs continue to dominate headlines.

For a dynamic industry like agriculture, a sector that’s used to planning ahead and adapting to changes in weather and fluctuating commodity prices, the possibility of tariffs coming as soon as Monday is difficult to brace for.

Those with a stake in the beef industry are specifically concerned about how tariffs will impact their highly integrated Canada-U.S. supply chain. Beef production often requires multiple trips back and forth over the border and such levies could cover every trip. 

“It has the potential to really be devastating for our industry in Canada,” said Keith Gregory, chair of the Alberta Cattle Feeders’ Association.

He’s also vice-president of Cattleland Feedyards near Strathmore, Alta., a feedlot built in the 1970s that houses over …