Trump's plan to import Argentinian beef at a forced discount is bad news for US ranchers and probably won't help shoppers much either.

• The US cattle herd has shrunk, and bringing in foreign beef does nothing to rebuild it.
• Cheap imports give ranchers a reason not to grow their herds, making the shortage worse long term.
• 66 farms and ranches are shutting down every day, according to the American Rancher Alliance.
• The 25% discount Trump wants on imported beef is likely to be pocketed by big packers, distributors, and stores rather than passed to shoppers.
• Cutting beef exports by 5% would keep more meat at home without undercutting ranchers.

Outlook: Beef prices are unlikely to drop much for shoppers, while American ranchers keep losing ground.