New Zealand lamb exporters at risk of new Trump tariffs, trade minister warns
New Zealand's trade minister has highlighted signals that US President Donald Trump may raise tariffs on sheep products. Any move would directly hit lamb sales to the United States, the sector's seventh-largest market.
New Zealand's trade minister has flagged warning signals from Washington that the United States may raise tariffs on sheep products and has cautioned the industry. The minister said talks are continuing and that Wellington is working diplomatically to shield exporters from any move.
The United States is the seventh-largest market for New Zealand lamb exports, with a much higher share in some premium categories. Industry representatives said any tariff rise would hit farmer earnings and export volumes in the short term.
New Zealand lamb futures softened on the news. The minister said the government was speeding up its search for alternative markets and backing new distributor deals, particularly across Asia. Any tariff decision could be announced after Trump's visit to Beijing.
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