US investigation into lamb imports from Australia and NZ

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) is investigating whether lamb imports from Australia and New Zealand are causing or threatening serious injury to the domestic U.S. sheep industry. The probe follows instructions from U.S. Trade Ambassador Jamieson Greer and comes amid a nearly 45% increase in lamb imports over the last five years.

If the USITC determines that injury is occurring, the commission may recommend remedies to President Donald Trump, such as quotas or increased tariffs. The American Sheep Industry Association and groups like R-CALF USA have advocated for protective measures to mitigate the impact of imports and offset higher domestic regulatory and labor costs.

Australian Ambassador Greg Moriarty has opposed potential restrictions, arguing that the decline in the American lamb industry is driven by domestic issues—including drought, the removal of wool subsidies, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic—rather than foreign competition. Moriarty warned that restricting imports could increase costs for American consumers, noting that the U.S. imports nearly 80 per cent of the lamb it consumes.

Data shows a long-term decline in the U.S. sheep flock, falling from 13.3 million in 1976 to a projected 4.99 million in 2026. The ITC is expected to issue its final decision on November 13. If remedial measures are recommended, they will be submitted to the U.S. President by January 11, 2027, who will then have two months to decide on implementing new restrictions or tariffs.