NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Labor conditions eased slightly in March, but hiring challenges remain elevated for small businesses, including agriculture and rural employers. New data from the National Federation of Independent Business shows the Small Business Employment Index declined, signaling some moderation while still reflecting a tight labor market.
Thirty-two percent of businesses reported unfilled job openings, well above the historical average. Nearly half of those hiring said they received few or no qualified applicants. Labor quality remains a key concern, with more owners citing it as their top problem compared to long-term averages.
For agriculture, the trends point to ongoing challenges. Farms and rural operations continue to compete for skilled workers, including equipment operators, livestock labor, and commercial drivers. These pressures come as seasonal labor needs increase heading into planting and summer workloads.
Wage pressures are easing slightly, with fewer businesses raising or planning to raise pay. However, labor costs remain elevated compared to historical levels.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Hiring may ease slightly, but labor shortages remain persistent.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
George Baird, with the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA), joins us with updates on how this year’s rice harvest is shaping up.
October 07, 2025 03:12 PM
·
Crop insurance remains a vital tool for managing climate-driven risk.
October 07, 2025 03:07 PM
·
Expect firm demand for dependable HRS and SW, steady movement in HRW, more sorting on SRW, and selective bids on durum until full milling results are released.
October 07, 2025 03:02 PM
·
Dr. Todd Davis, Chief Economist with the Indiana Farm Bureau, shares a snapshot of his state’s harvest conditions and insights from producers.
October 07, 2025 02:37 PM
·
Market analyst Kevin Huddleston said news of trade deals could rebound cotton prices in late fall, and producers need to be ready to strike deals.
October 07, 2025 02:05 PM
·
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, joined us to break down the latest data on Canadian farmland values and share insights on how it impacts producers.
October 07, 2025 01:14 PM
·
