As the cattle industry heads into 2026 facing tight supplies, volatile markets and heightened scrutiny of labeling and trade policy, leaders with the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association say the timing of their annual meeting could not be more critical.
USCA President Justin Tupper says the organization’s 2026 Annual Meeting, set for January 21–22 in Manhattan, Kansas, will focus squarely on the issues producers are dealing with right now — from truth in labeling and plant closures to animal health threats and generational viability.
“Being right in the heart of feeder cattle country is important,” Tupper said. “This is where the conversations need to happen.”
Registration Still Open, Robust Agenda Planned
Tupper says registration remains open, with flexible options for one- or two-day attendance. Panels and discussions will cover a wide range of timely topics, including market conditions, beef processing capacity, New World Screwworm preparedness and recent changes to labeling rules.
One of the most anticipated discussions will center on the USDA’s new “Product of the USA” labeling rule, which took effect January 1. The rule requires beef carrying that label to come from cattle born, raised, slaughtered and processed entirely in the United States.
Tupper called the rule “a step in the right direction,” saying it closes long-standing loopholes that allowed imported beef to be minimally processed domestically and marketed as American.
“That was dishonest labeling and misleading to consumers,” he said. “It leaned on the backs of hundreds of years of work by American ranchers.”
While the rule falls short of mandatory country-of-origin labeling, Tupper says it establishes a clearer standard and accountability, particularly for smaller and regional packers willing to verify compliance.
Trade Policy and COOL Remain Front and Center
Looking ahead, Tupper says broader country-of-origin labeling efforts will have to be addressed through trade negotiations to avoid retaliation under World Trade Organization rules. USCA recently testified in Washington, D.C., advocating for labeling provisions as part of ongoing North American trade discussions.
“With free trade agreements, this has to be negotiated,” Tupper said. “That’s why we’ve been pushing to get this included as USMCA comes up for renewal.”
New World Screwworm: Preparedness Over Denial
Animal health threats will also be a key focus, particularly the continued presence of New World Screwworm in parts of Mexico. Tupper said producers need to take a realistic approach.
“There’s no imaginary wall,” he said. “When it gets to the border, there’s nothing that’s going to stop it. It’s a matter of when, not if.”
Rather than assuming the pest can be kept out indefinitely, Tupper says the industry must focus on mitigation plans, surveillance and rapid response strategies to protect the domestic cow herd.
Plant Closures Raise Market Concerns
Beef processing capacity and recent plant closures are expected to generate strong discussion at the meeting. Tupper expressed concern about facilities being closed or idled without plans to sell or reopen, calling those actions worth scrutiny.
“When plants are darkened and taken off the market, that starts to look like potential market manipulation,” he said. “If that’s what’s driving these closures, it needs to be investigated.”
While acknowledging reduced cattle numbers and shifting efficiencies, Tupper says USCA will continue pushing for transparency and accountability to ensure producers are protected.
Producer Involvement Encouraged
USCA will also hold board elections during the meeting, with a few seats open. Tupper emphasized that the organization operates on a one-member, one-vote structure and urged producers to get involved.
“If you don’t stand up and speak for yourself, nobody else will,” he said.
Investing in the Next Generation
A session titled “Beyond the Fence Line” will focus on the next generation of cattle producers. Tupper says USCA’s NextGen program has brought new perspectives and energy into the organization.
“We worry about gray-haired syndrome,” he said. “Profitability is what brings young people back, and we need their ideas if we’re going to move forward.”
Value of In-Person Networking
Beyond policy and panels, Tupper says the real value of the annual meeting lies in networking — from social events and a live auction to a feedyard tour near Manhattan.
“You cannot replicate sitting across the table from someone and having real discussions about where this industry is going,” he said.
As the cattle industry navigates another year of uncertainty and opportunity, Tupper says collaboration — both within USCA and across industry groups — will be essential.
“We’re under three percent of the population,” he said. “When we align on issues, we have to work together. That’s the only way we move forward.”
Registration and agenda details available here.
####
Northern Ag Network/USCA – 2026
