WASHINGTON/CHICAGO — U.S. farmers on Monday criticized President Donald Trump’s suggestion that the country may import more beef from Argentina, after they recently lost out to the South American nation on soybean sales to top buyer China.

Trump said on Sunday that he was considering imports to reduce U.S. beef prices that have climbed to record highs. His administration earlier extended a $20 billion currency swap lifeline to Argentina, which the president considers an ally.

Cattle producers saw the suggestion as a threat to their livelihoods and free markets, at a time when ranchers are profiting from sky-high livestock prices and strong consumer demand.

“This plan only creates chaos at a critical time of the year for American cattle producers, while doing nothing to lower grocery sto

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