US Pushes UK to Drop Hormone Beef Ban

US Pressures UK to Ease Meat Import Barriers in Trade Talks

The United States is increasing pressure on the UK to relax EU-aligned food import rules that currently block hormone-treated American beef and pork, as trade negotiations between the two countries continue.

The Trump administration is pushing Britain to move away from regulatory standards inherited from the EU, arguing that they unfairly restrict access for US meat exports. The measures in question prohibit imports of beef produced using growth hormones and certain pork production methods.

Despite a 2025 UK–US trade agreement and the introduction of a tariff-rate quota for UK beef entering the US, the British government has reiterated that it will not dilute food safety, animal welfare or consumer protection standards as part of any deal.

UK officials have stressed that maintaining high standards remains politically non-negotiable, reflecting strong public sentiment and retailer commitments. The standoff highlights the ongoing tension between market access ambitions and regulatory sovereignty in post-Brexit trade policy.

The issue is expected to remain a key friction point as both sides seek to deepen trade ties while navigating domestic political constraints.

Source: Meatingplace | 20 January 2026