How Exchange Rates and the NHTC Program Can Strengthen U.S. Beef Exports

At Samson, we’ve spent two decades helping producers verify their cattle with integrity and precision. Every so often, the global market shifts in ways that open new doors for our verified customers — and right now, the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the euro is one of those opportunities.

A stronger euro means European buyers have greater purchasing power. For U.S. beef exporters, that translates to a chance to compete more effectively in Europe — especially for those raising NHTC Program Cattle verified through Samson.

The Exchange Rate Advantage for U.S. Beef

As of now, one euro equals about $1.17. In simple terms, the U.S. dollar is weaker than the euro — and that’s actually good news for American beef exports.

When the euro is strong:

• U.S. beef becomes more affordable in euro terms.

• Exporters can provide competitive prices for European buyers without losing profit.

• U.S. beef looks more competitive compared to local or South American alternatives.

That currency advantage acts like a built-in cushion, helping exporters overcome costs tied to shipping, tariffs, and regulatory compliance — all while maintaining solid margins at home.

Why This Matters for NHTC Program Cattle

For producers enrolled in the Non-Hormone Treated Cattle (NHTC) program, this market shift comes at the perfect time. The NHTC program allows eligible U.S. beef to enter the European Union and become available to the 450 million consumers residing in European Union member states.

When the euro is strong, those verified shipments become even more competitive. Our NHTC customers are in a great position to market their cattle to feedlots or packers looking to:

• Fully utilize quota access by offering attractive pricing.

• Protect margins despite higher transport or input costs.

• Strengthen relationships with European importers who value verified, premium U.S. beef.

This is a prime example of how certification and market conditions can work together to reward producers committed to doing things the right way.

Competing Beyond Price

While exchange rates help, price isn’t the only factor driving European demand. NHTC verification through Samson assures buyers that cattle meet the EU’s strict non-hormone and traceability requirements — standards that are important to the European market.

That transparency builds confidence in U.S. beef as a premium, trustworthy product. When paired with a favorable currency climate, it’s a combination that helps U.S. cattle producers compete globally without compromising integrity.

What This Means for Ranchers in the NHTC Program

While exchange rates and export margins often make headlines, the real story starts at the ranch. A strong euro doesn’t just benefit packers and feedlots — it can create meaningful opportunity for ranchers enrolled in the NHTC program.

When demand for U.S. beef rises in export markets, the entire verified supply chain feels the lift. European buyers look for consistent, high-quality cattle that meet strict non-hormone and traceability standards. That demand starts upstream — with the ranchers who are willing to broaden their potential markets.

Here’s how ranchers can benefit directly:

• Stronger market access: Verified NHTC cattle become more valuable to buyers supplying the export market, especially when the exchange rate makes U.S. beef more attractive overseas.

• Premium pricing potential: Packers and feedyards need compliant cattle to fill quota-based export orders, which often translates to better bids for verified ranch-level cattle.

• Long-term relationships: NHTC participation positions ranchers as reliable partners in a premium, value-driven supply chain — one that prioritizes traceability and animal well being.

In short, when global conditions favor U.S. beef exports, it’s the ranchers who’ve committed to verified production that help make those exports possible — and who stand to gain the most from the program’s growing demand.

At Samson, we’re proud to stand alongside producers who lead with quality and transparency. Because every successful shipment of NHTC beef to Europe starts with a verified ranch right here at home.