Ag Sec. Brooke Rollins addresses trade and disaster relief at USDA’s Ag Outlook

Trade has been a big topic at USDA’s Ag Outlook Forum this week in Washington, D.C.

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins is delivering the keynote address this morning, and she mentioned the Administration’s commitment to securing fair trade deals for American farmers, noting that addressing trade issues is a top priority for the White House.

“We’re committed to getting a fair deal for American agriculture and trade. As you know, this is a top priority for this White House, and we’re going to get it done. I know that many in our industry are concerned, and rightly so, about the effect of tariffs on farmers. But I want you to know that your concerns are heard and that I will always be always your greatest champion.”

Rollins also provided updates on disaster relief, saying the Administration is going to deliver $40 billion in emergency aid, and the effort is moving quickly, with plans to meet the March 21st deadline set by Congress.

Related Stories
China’s buying decisions continue to be a critical factor in shaping cotton prices and export opportunities worldwide.
Lower inventories and cautious farrowing plans suggest tighter hog supplies into 2026, keeping producer margins sensitive to demand trends and health risks.
Secretary Rollins’ plan targets high costs, labor challenges, and export growth, delivering relief at home while building markets abroad.
Transportation challenges are mounting as droughts lower Mississippi River levels and push freight rates higher.
Waiting could risk leaving next year’s crop unprotected.
Speaking about his administration’s tariff strategy, Trump acknowledged that producers could face financial strain in the short term but promised stopgap support.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

In a post to social media, Trump said Venezuela will buy American agriculture products and will use the money from oil sales to make it happen.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
Wed, 1/21/26 – 7:30 PM ET
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share insights on building healthy habits and improving rural health in the year ahead.
Dr. Rosslyn Biggs with the Oklahoma State University Center for Rural Veterinary Medicine shares insight into biosecurity, preparedness, and animal health concerns facing livestock producers as New World screwworm outbreaks continue in Mexico.