From Monopoly to Trade: Lawmakers heard farmers’ major concerns for this year

Ag lawmakers this year are looking for ways to increase market access for U.S. farmers and ranchers. It was a big topic at a recent Senate Ag Committee hearing.

Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) was there and said farmers shared some big concerns.

“One of the speakers talked about how farmers sell to a monopoly, that there are three or four places you can sell,” Sen. Marshall explains. “So what can we do to expand farmers, and the different markets that they can reach? Then, of course, we got to talk about trade, and certainly, we’re grateful for the past trade agreements President Trump got done. USMCA, South Korea, and Japan seem like I’m missing one or two of them. Joe Biden didn’t do any new trade. So, for four years, we’ve been idle, and we’re looking forward to President Trump hopping back in there and doing some strong bilateral trading agreements.”

Trade will be a big topic in the coming weeks. Tariffs with Canada and Mexico are on hold for one month as the two countries work out details. So far, both countries have made concessions to keep the extra duties at bay.

Related Stories
Paul Neiffer joined us to explain how USDA’s base acre expansion will be calculated, outline key deadlines for farmers, and discuss how the changes tie into farm program decisions and the broader Farm Bill outlook.
The non-profit organization is helping feed communities while creating pathways for at-risk youth.
Ethanol demand held together last week, but lower production and thinner stocks put more focus on export strength. Production capacity is also strengthening over time and benefiting soybean farmers.
Farm Bureau Economist Dr. Faith Parum discusses USDA’s efforts to expand fertilizer capacity, signals for farm profitability, and AFBF’s Farm Bill expectations.
Expanded export financing could provide greater support for ag sales abroad if buyers and lenders use the additional tools.
Authorities say the drones were recovered during a routine inspection after being stolen last month.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Roger McEowen joins us to explain the USDA appeals process and how farmers should navigate adverse decisions and crop insurance disputes.
Austin Rice with Specialty Risk Insurance shares guidance on handling storm damage, navigating the insurance claims process, and managing risk during a volatile planting season.
Eric Weaver with UNL joins us to share about a promising new HPAI vaccine, early test results, next steps in development, and its potential impact on the livestock industry.
California almond acreage tightens while pistachios shift into an off-year, shaping a mixed outlook for prices and supply in the tree nut market.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joins us to break down the latest USDA crop progress report, share insights from growers, and discuss how global factors are shaping planting decisions this season.
House lawmakers push toward a Farm Bill vote as debate grows over E15, Prop 12, and input costs, with farmers seeking certainty and policy updates.