Australia denies Trump role in easing US beef import rules Albanese says decision was based on science, not politics28 July 2025 28 July 2025 2 minute read 2 minute read By: By: Global Ag Media North America OceaniaAustralia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Sunday that a decision to ease rules on US beef imports was not prompted by US President Donald Trump, reported Reuters. Trump this week said the US would sell "so much" beef to Australia after Canberra announced the relaxation of restrictions, potentially smoothing trade talks with Washington. "This wasn't a political decision," Albanese said in remarks on Australian Broadcasting Corp television, adding that Trump had not raised the issue with him in a phone call. In April, Trump singled out the beef trade disparity with Australia after Australia's beef exports to the US surged last year, reaching A$4 billion amid a slump in US beef production. A loosening of beef import rules is not expected to boost US shipments significantly because Australia is a major beef producer and exporter whose prices are much lower, according to analysts.