WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) — As producers continue to grapple with high input costs and challenging market conditions, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has announced a new five-step plan aimed at supporting the farm economy. The initiative includes a “Memorandum of Understanding” (MOU) with the Department of Justice to examine fertilizer and seed prices, two of the most pressing cost concerns for farmers.
Duane Simpson, CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC), joined us in Monday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on the plan and its potential impact on producers.
In his interview with RFD-TV News, Simpson underscored the financial strain that rising input costs have placed on farmers and expressed optimism that the MOU could help bring transparency and fairness to the market. He also addressed the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) decision to expedite $285 million through the America First Trade Promotion Program, stating that the investment could open new opportunities for U.S. agricultural products abroad at a crucial time during the harvest.
Simpson further reflected on the challenges facing the ag community—from unpredictable markets to weather and supply chain disruptions—and shared his thoughts on whether the USDA’s new measures will be enough to provide meaningful relief for farmers nationwide.
Beef industry groups seem to agree — market-based pricing, not federal intervention, best supports rancher livelihoods and long-term beef supply stability.
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Expect firm calf and fed-cattle prices — pair selective heifer retention with prudent hedging and liquidity to bridge rebuilding costs.
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Soybean farmer and Arkansas Lt. Gov. Leslie Rutledge highlights why the U.S. trade standoff with China is especially critical for Arkansas producers.
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NEFB President Mark McHargue provides an update from the Husker State, where farmers are working hard to bring in one of the largest harvests in recent years.
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Todd Miller, CEO of Head Honchos, shares about his business offering to ease agricultural labor shortages.
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Having a good read on fuel prices is a must during harvest, but one analyst says grain farmers should also be watching the crude oil markets.
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National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew discusses the urgent need for aid as farm families face mounting input costs and long-term market uncertainty.
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