WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — President Donald Trump is expected to discuss trade and the ongoing conflict with Iran during a Cabinet meeting at the White House today, after weather concerns forced the gathering to be moved from Camp David.
While a ceasefire remains in place, overnight missile attacks are raising questions about its stability.
Energy markets are reacting cautiously, with crude oil prices remaining below $100/barrel and the national diesel average slipping another cent overnight.
The pork industry says fuel and transportation costs tied to the conflict continue to pressure operations, though export demand has largely remained steady.
USDA trade data show that pork exports to several Middle Eastern markets weakened in March, with shipments to Egypt down 9 percent.
National Pork Board’s Andy Tauer discusses the growing popularity of the Boston Butt Pork Burger and key topics at the USMEF Spring Conference.
Corn inspections remain strong year-to-date, while China’s soybean and sorghum movement remains important to late-season export demand.
At the center of the announcement is the Blue Point Project in Louisiana, a $3.7 billion ammonia facility, USDA says, that will become the world’s largest ammonia plant once completed.
Southern Plains wheat shippers face higher rail fuel surcharges as hard red winter wheat production falls toward a nearly 70-year low.
USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom joins us to discuss China’s renewed access for U.S. beef facilities, the outlook for exports, and key conversations taking place at this week’s Spring Conference.
Strong rail and ocean demand support grain movement, but weak barge traffic and high diesel costs keep freight pressure elevated.
