LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — U.S. farmers are increasingly concerned about long-term profitability and global competitiveness, as rising input costs and weaker margins continue to pressure operations across the country.
A new survey from the Southern Cotton Ginners Association, conducted at the Mid-South Farm & Gin Show, found more than 52 percent of respondents expect to be worse off within two years, while only 9 percent anticipate improvement. Over 75 percent believe U.S. agriculture has lost competitiveness in the past five years, with many pointing to Brazil’s lower costs, fewer regulations, and larger production scale as key advantages.
The cost-price squeeze remains a central concern. More than 80 percent of respondents identified commodity prices as a major issue, while 60 percent cited input costs as a primary pressure on margins. That combination is raising concerns about financial viability, with some producers indicating difficulty securing operating loans for the coming season.
Beyond farm-level economics, structural concerns are also emerging. Respondents highlighted consolidation among input suppliers and broader rural economic decline, including land leaving production and a decline in local operators.
Discussions at the event focused on potential solutions, including policy changes and incentives to support domestic production, but uncertainty remains elevated across the sector.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Margin pressure and competitiveness concerns are shaping cautious outlooks.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Corn exports remain strong, while soybeans and wheat shift week to week on river conditions and global demand.
November 25, 2025 02:51 PM
·
The National Milk Producers Federation will launch a new advocacy campaign to secure a final vote, urging House lawmakers to approve the bill as soon as they return from the Thanksgiving recess.
November 25, 2025 01:09 PM
·
AFBF Vice President of Public Policy and Economic Analysis, Dr. John Newton, explains the factors contributing to the growing financial strain in the ag sector and the urgent need for swift economic support.
November 25, 2025 12:40 PM
·
Tyson’s Nebraska plant closure and falling Cattle on Feed numbers send cattle markets tumbling. Analysts warn of tighter supplies, weak margins, and rising global competition.
November 25, 2025 12:05 PM
·
A regional snapshot of harvest pace, crop conditions, logistics, and livestock economics across U.S. agriculture, prepared by RFD-TV Markets Specialist Tony St. James, for the week of Monday, November 24, 2025.
November 24, 2025 02:56 PM
·
Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller warns horse owners after EHV-1 cases linked to the Waco WPRA Finals. Horses linked to recent Waco events should be isolated and closely monitored, as early action is critical to stopping the spread of EHV-1.
November 24, 2025 02:47 PM
·
