LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (RFD-TV) — As tensions continue to rise between the United States and China, the agriculture sector is closely watching the impact on soybean markets and related trade. Earlier this week, President Donald Trump said he is considering halting imports of Chinese cooking oil and other trade items in response to China’s ongoing refusal to purchase U.S. soybeans.
Soybean farmer and Arkansas Lieutenant Governor Leslie Rutledge joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss the issue and highlight why this trade standoff is especially critical for Arkansas producers.
Lt. Gov. Rutledge also provided an update on this year’s soybean harvest in Arkansas — and explained that, with “beans in the teens and single-digit harvests,” the situation in the ground for farmers is dire.
Lt. Gov. Rutledge has been a vocal supporter of the president’s hardline stance on China, calling the country’s trade behavior “economically hostile.” She explained that Arkansas farmers, like many across the Midwest and South, have felt the sting of reduced demand and lower commodity prices as a result of strained trade relations.
In her interview with RFD-TV News, she also highlighted China’s influence in the used cooking oil market — an issue with wide-reaching effects. Rutledge explained that cooking oil imports from China don’t just impact soybean growers, but also the U.S. biodiesel industry and America’s broader push for energy independence.
While some critics warn that tougher trade policies could lead to economic retaliation or higher prices, Rutledge said standing firm against unfair trade practices is necessary to protect American farmers and level the playing field long-term.
She says Arkansas will continue seeking out ways to support producers through these challenges — from expanding domestic biofuel production to strengthening local supply chains.
While the agriculture industry hoped details on proposed “bridge” payments for farmers would be released this week, Ag Secretary Brook Rollins said the USDA is still working with the White House on the finer points.
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