By Leah Douglas and Tom Polansek

Summary:

– Trump floated Argentine beef imports to lower U.S. grocery prices.

– Farmers say plan threatens domestic cattle markets and profits.

– Economists argue imports unlikely to reduce prices and could hurt herd rebuilding.

WASHINGTON — 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 import s 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 th

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