The Cattle Industry Summer Business Meeting drew over 700 cattlemen and women to Denver this week to discuss the policy priorities for the cattle industry.

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) president Tracy Brunner says the event showed how the industry comes together to tackle critical issues like market volatility and expanding international markets, especially related to passage of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).

“Trade is a critical component of the cattle industry’s profitability, and expanding exports through current and future trade agreements like TPP hold tremendous potential for our producers,” said Brunner. “TPP will immediately reduce tariffs and level the playing field for U.S. beef exports to these growing markets.”

The market volatility that continues to threaten the effectiveness of the futures markets was also a top priority this week, as well as NCBA’s commitment to working directly with the CME group to find a solution.

“Market volatility, driven by high frequency trading, has been a major concern for producers across the country,” said Brunner. “The NCBA CME working group had the opportunity to meet in person this week to discuss these issues. While discussions continue, I am confident that through working with CME, we can resolve these issues to ensure the futures market is a viable tool for risk management.”

NCBA is also continuing its work with state and federal governments to ensure multiple use on public grazing lands. Ranchers are closest to the land and the best stewards of our natural resources, ensuring productive use, maintaining open space, and mitigating fire hazards.