Republicans Push for Tariffs on Aussie Lamb

0:00What's up, Adelaide? This is Adelaide News Today, bringing you the city's fastest updates on what is happening now. Dozens of Republicans in Congress are pushing for higher tariffs on land imports from Australia and New Zealand to protect American sheep farmers. They send letters to the top U.S. trade official and introduced a bill for a 30% tariff on those products, including wool. This comes amid concerns that foreign competition is hurting domestic producers. Meanwhile, the push involved calls for a global safeguard investigation under trade laws that could lead to new duties. Lawmakers from both the House and Senate signed off on the letters earlier this month, urging quick action to level the playing field. The bill, led by a Nevada Republican, has been sent to a House Committee but faces challenges without broader party support. American sheep industry groups have long complained about the influx of cheaper imports, saying it's squeezing local farmers. Australia sees the U.S. as a key market, exporting sheep meat worth $1.6 billion last year.

1:03Higher tariffs could raise U.S. grocery prices, clashing with efforts to keep food costs down. The effort predates recent Supreme Court rulings that block some emergency tariffs, so Republicans are eyeing other legal paths or new legislation. Past bills targeting specific imports, like Australian beef, have stalled in committees without advancing to a vote. Australian officials are fighting back, advocating for open trade during recent visits to the U.S. They stress the benefits of fair competition between the two countries, while the tariff feels path forward remains uncertain in a divided Congress. This episode is brought to you by our sponsor. See the episode description. What is cooler than cool? A pillow that plays your sound.