Expert: Trade and Financial Uncertainties Weigh on Farmers Ahead of Spring Planting

Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities discusses current farmer sentiment, trade considerations, and the market factors shaping the outlook for the upcoming planting season.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — As producers look ahead to planting season, attention is being pulled in several directions, from newly released guidance on the 45Z tax credit to harvest progress in South America and ongoing trade uncertainty.

Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to share what he is hearing from farmers as they navigate the early-season outlook.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Williamson said producers are closely watching policy developments alongside global supply factors as they make marketing and input decisions.

Williamson also discussed U.S. trade, touching on the upcoming formal review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) scheduled for July, and explained how those discussions, combined with broader trade developments, could influence prices, exports, and overall confidence among U.S. farmers.

He emphasized that while uncertainty remains, producers are staying engaged and informed as they prepare for the months ahead.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Quick to prep and packed with flavor, this dish is a bold way to kick up any weekend spread.
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.
As cattle markets show renewed strength, producers gathering at CattleCon are focused on protecting operations, managing risk, and positioning for opportunity in 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.