USTR Revises Port Service Fees—What It Means for U.S. Meat Exports

Dudefoods.co

USTR Revises Port Service Fees—Here’s What It Means for U.S. Meat Exports (and Your Grocery Bill)

Big news in the meat world: The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) just announced a major revision to its proposed port service fees on foreign-built vessels. The original plan sparked serious concern across the meat industry due to the potential for higher shipping costs and disruption to U.S. exports—especially beef and pork headed to Asia.

But while these changes are making waves for international exporters, here's something important to remember:

At Dude Food, we don’t import meat. Period.

We proudly source 100% of our meat from over 200 family-owned farms in the Midwest.
Our mission has always been about local, farm-to-table quality—not chasing profit margins across borders.

So What’s the USTR Fee Thing About?

The USTR initially proposed charging up to $1.5 million per port call for foreign-built ships servicing U.S. ports. This sent shockwaves through export-heavy industries, including red meat. After nearly 600 public comments—including from the U.S. Meat Export Federation—the USTR revised the plan.

What Changed:

1. Fees now apply per voyage, not per port call.
This makes it less likely for shippers to cut stops at key export ports (like Oakland).

2. Fees are based on vessel size.
Smaller ships, especially those running short-haul routes, will see lower fees.

3.Exemptions include:

- U.S. domestic-only routes

- Ports in the Caribbean, U.S. territories, and Great Lakes

- Ships arriving empty to pick up exports

Rollout begins October 14, 2025, with a gradual increase over 3 years.

Will This Affect Grocery Store Meat Prices?

Maybe a little—but not because of us.

For companies that rely on international trade, the added fees could raise export costs. Over time, that might mean higher prices as supply chains rebalance.

But at Dude Food, our supply chain is as local as it gets.
We don’t rely on foreign ports or international shipping lanes.
We work directly with Midwest ranchers to bring premium, pasture-raised meat from the farm to your door.

That means:

No surprise costs from overseas disruptions
No imported meat
No mystery sourcing
Just real, American-raised protein you can trust

Sick and Tired of Mystery Meat? Dude Food's got your back!

SHOP NOW!

The Bigger Picture

The revised USTR fee structure is still a wildcard for big exporters, but it has zero impact on Dude Food customers.

We're not playing the import/export game. We're playing the quality game—and we’re doing it right here in the heart of America.

So while the industry adapts, your box from us stays exactly what it should be:

✅ American-grown
✅ Midwestern-raised
✅ Family-farm supported
✅ Delivered straight to your kitchen

The Bottom Line

USTR revised proposed port fees after export industry backlash.
International shippers will feel the squeeze—but Dude Food won’t.
We source 100% of our meat from over 200 Midwest family farms.
You’ll keep getting the same premium cuts—no imports, no compromise.

custom boxes now available!

All Natural
Never any mRNAs, hormones, etc.
100% American
Product benefit 4

CHECK AVAILABILITY

✔️ 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

Your Brand

Differentiation Point 1

Differentiation Point 2

Differentiation Point 3

Differentiation Point 4

Differentiation Point 5

Differentiation Point 6

Differentiation Point 7

Differentiation Point 8

Other Brands

What Our Customers Are Saying

3,000+ 5 Star Reviews

THEY HAVE THE MEATS, NOT ARBY'S

“My wife was pissed when I ordered at first, but now even she loves it. That says it all. Premium Quality, arrives frozen, and supports our farmers. What more could a guy ask for? I'm a customer for life."

- Brett M

GOD BLESS THE FARMERS

"A friend recommended Dude Food to me, and now it's a staple for our grill outs and parties. Everyone raves about the quality, and I love knowing I'm supporting real farmers - not some corporate B.S."

- Randy K

FUELING MY CARNIVORE DIET

"I needed clean, quality, source of meat for the carnivore diet, and I've never felt better. Dude Food's meat is a game-changer. You'll pay a little more, but it's worth EVERY PENNY! Highly recommend these dudes!"

- Michael L