Ag Economic Barometer: Despite ag trade uncertainty, farmer sentiment is strong for the year ahead

Dr. Jim Mintert of Purdue University spoke with RFD-TV’s Suzanne Alexander about contributing factors, producer opinions on trade policy, and the reading’s big takeaways.

Despite ag trade uncertainty, farmers still have an optimistic outlook for the year ahead, according to the latest Ag Economy Barometer, which rose five points from the previous month.

Dr. Jim Mintert of Purdue University spoke with RFD-TV’s Suzanne Alexander about contributing factors, producer opinions on trade policy, and the reading’s big takeaways.

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