The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has reached an evenly divided determination in its global safeguard investigation into lamb meat.
With the split vote, the trade case will now move into the remedy phase. This transition into the remedy phase marks a significant milestone in the American Sheep Industry Association’s (ASI) ongoing efforts to address the harmful impact of lamb imports on the domestic sheep industry and advocate for import relief for American sheep producers.
ASI initiated this effort in October 2025, requesting that the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative investigate the impact of lamb imports on domestic producers under Section 201 of the Trade Act of 1974. Acting on behalf of its 42 state sheep associations and the nation’s sheep producers, ASI has worked to bring the industry’s concerns before federal decisionmakers, build congressional support and ensure producers’ experiences are represented throughout the investigation.
As part of those efforts, ASI presented testimony at the ITC Injury Hearing on October 16. Sheep ranchers and processors provided information regarding the serious injury low priced imports have caused the domestic industry. The hearing provided an important opportunity to demonstrate that low-priced imports are the primary reason for the industry’s challenges.
Among the most powerful evidence presented was the extent to which imported lamb consistently undersells American lamb. ASI’s economic experts highlighted data showing that imports undersold domestic lamb in more than 90% of price comparisons, while many purchasers identified lower prices as a reason for buying imported product. The testimony also demonstrated how imports have captured an overwhelming share of the U.S. market even as American producers have invested in modern processing facilities and worked to improve efficiency and promote lamb consumption.
The ITC’s determination resulted in a split three-three vote. In the case of a tied vote, each set of Commissioners will have until January 11 to send reports and recommendations on remedy to President Trump. The President has 60 days to accept the findings and recommendations or adopt a remedy of his choosing If the President decides to grant relief, the measures will take effect approximately 15 days after the President proclaims the action.
“While we would have preferred a clear affirmative decision, a tie still results in an important step forward for American sheep producers and reflects the collective efforts of our industry to bring this issue before federal decision-makers,” said Ben Lehfeldt, ASI board president. “ASI has worked tirelessly alongside our members to ensure their concerns are heard and supported by the economic evidence we’ve gathered. We are encouraged by this determination, but our work is not finished. We will continue advocating for meaningful relief that gives American sheep producers a fair opportunity to compete and supports the long-term future of our industry.”
Producers and industry supporters can follow the case and contribute to ASI’s ongoing advocacy fund at www.sheepusa.org/issues/asi-trade-case.
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ASI – 2026
