US Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins officially announced in a Fox News interview that the United States will no longer import meat from Argentina as a protectionist measure to safeguard domestic production. Emphasizing President Donald Trump's "America First" policy, Secretary Rollins stated, "There will be no more Argentine meat." She added that American farmers and fishermen support President Trump's policy of prioritizing domestic interests over imports from countries like Argentina, China, India, and Canada.

Despite the tariff waivers and friendly relationship between President Trump and Argentine President Javier Milei, Secretary Rollins' remarks have raised concerns about the impact on Argentina's foreign trade balance. This decision is expected to significantly impact the Argentine economy, especially as President Milei faces difficulties securing funds for his "chainsaw" reforms following the third national general strike last Thursday.

Secretary Rollins emphasized, "We will prioritize America, not Argentine meat," and asserted, "No one will fight harder, smarter, and more strategically than President Trump." She reiterated, "We will prioritize America for all Americans, not China, not India, not Argentine meat, not Canadian dairy."

Furthermore, Secretary Rollins mentioned, "I've heard from fishermen and cattlemen who support the President, understand his vision, and say this will lead to better outcomes for their families."

She explained, "People elected this unconventional president to prioritize America, and they voted for him in swing states." Secretary Rollins added that President Trump stated, "As president, more than 70 countries are calling us to negotiate."

Secretary Rollins stressed, "These are uncertain times, but the strategy and plan are proceeding smoothly," and foreshadowed a "golden age" for America.

Secretary Rollins, a lawyer with a degree in agricultural development from Texas A&M University, is a long-time aide to President Trump and previously served as his Director of Domestic Policy. The 52-year-old is the President and CEO of the America First Policy Institute.   

US Reinforces Protectionism: Background and Impact on Argentine Economy

The US's latest action is interpreted as part of a move to strengthen protectionism to protect its domestic industries. The Trump administration has been pursuing policies to bolster domestic industries by reinforcing import regulations under the banner of "America First." The decision to halt Argentine meat imports appears to be a continuation of this trend.   

Meat exports are a crucial industry for Argentina, and the United States is a major export market. Therefore, the US decision is expected to significantly impact Argentina's meat exports. This could place additional strain on the Argentine economy, which is already facing challenges due to President Milei's austerity measures.   

Some experts analyze that this measure could affect the friendly relationship between President Trump and President Milei. President Milei has openly expressed his support for President Trump; however, this decision raises the possibility of a slight cooling in bilateral relations.   

The US decision could also influence the future of the international trade order. As the US demonstrates a move towards strengthening protectionism, other countries may also take similar measures to protect their domestic industries. This raises concerns about escalating global trade tensions and potentially negatively impacting the world economy.

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