US cattle farmers caught between high costs and weary consumersASHLAND, United States, Feb 15, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - In rural Virginia, dozens of young cows belonging to Chris Stem graze by a frozen pond. Despite soaring beef prices as the US cattle population hit a 75-year low, farmers like Stem are feeling the squeeze from steeper business costs, budget-conscious consumers and President Donald Trump's trade policy. "The cost of doing business is almost outpricing (our ability) to continue to raise cattle," Stem told AFP. - 'State of crisis' -Steeper beef prices have become a symbol of high living costs in the world's biggest economy, which has fueled voter frustration. Beef and veal prices were up 15 percent year-on-year in January while ground beef prices, which hit a new high in December, have continued climbing.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha February 15, 2026 02:54 UTC