Economists on Trade Deal with China: “If exports decline, our farmers decline”

Farm groups are eager for details of the Chinese trade deal.

One organization has been talking to farmers coast to coast and tells us exports are their top concern.

“20 percent of US farm revenue comes from exports, so if our exports decline, our farmers decline, and that’s really scary. Farmers are also price takers when it comes to input. So if we’re driving up the cost of fertilizer or steel or farm chemicals, farmers get squeezed, and that’s the big concern. We don’t want to see farmers go out of business. Farmers play an important role in terms of food security, in terms of keeping our rural communities afloat,” said Brian Kuehl.

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins appeared before the House Ag Committee this week, talking about some of those concerns. During her four-plus-hour testimony, she doubled down on her commitment to remove obstacles for small farmers.

Related Stories
Smaller U.S. production and steady global demand could provide better pricing opportunities in 2026.
Stronger rail movement and lower fuel prices are easing logistics, even as export pace and river conditions remain uneven.
Recent USDA export sales data show China has been active in the U.S. market, but analysts tell RFD-TV News that the timing is a key clue.
Cattle markets are watching the Cattle-on-Feed Report for signs of tighter supplies, while USMEF warns limited China access is cutting producer profits.
Weather-driven transportation disruptions can tighten logistics, affect basis levels, and delay grain movement during winter months.
USDA Undersecretary Luke Lindberg outlines the Farm Bridge Assistance Program and responds to calls from lawmakers and ag leaders for more assistance and expanded trade opportunities for farmers.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities discusses current farmer sentiment, trade considerations, and the market factors shaping the outlook for the upcoming planting season.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln President Dr. Jeffrey Gold talks about heart health and preventive care for viewers in rural communities.
Jeramy Stephens of National Land Realty breaks down current trends in the farmland real estate market and how landowners should consider water availability and its impact on land values as they plan for the year ahead.
The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo continues through Saturday, showcasing livestock, youth involvement, and agricultural talent, with the Junior Sale of Champions serving as the culmination of the 23-day event.
We caught up with John Deere’s Hay & Forage Got-To Market Manager Kaylene Ballesteros to learn how tech is evolving how producers make hay, from baling efficiency to operator confidence.
U.S. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas discusses expected changes to the 45Z tax credit and what they could mean for agriculture and rural America.