The Finance Committee held a hearing focused on trade and supply chains.
Ag voices were part of the conversation, including the American Soybean Association. President Caleb Ragland shared concerns about the economic pressure farmers are facing and urged lawmakers to focus on expanding market access in future trade deals.
“Our farm economy is in a dire situation. Commodity prices are down nearly 50% from three years ago, while farmers are still facing elevated prices for land, seeds, fertilizer, and pesticides. As the Administration negotiates with trading partners to reduce barriers and address reciprocal trade issues, we encourage this committee to press the White House on the importance of market access for U.S. agriculture. My written testimony includes specific asks of our industry, including a strong plea to couple this reciprocal tariff strategy with swift negotiations to reduce tariffs and remove market barriers for U.S. ag products.”
In a follow-up, Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley asked which countries could serve as future markets for U.S. soy products beyond China. Ragland pointed to India, noting its large population but acknowledging trade with the country remains complex.
The Fertilizer Research Act, reintroduced by Sens. Grassley, Ernst, and Baldwin, would direct the USDA to study and publish public reports on competition and pricing trends in the fertilizer market.
September 16, 2025 05:08 PM
·
Allowing year-round sales of E15 nationally could deliver billions in economic gains, according to a new study from the Renewable Fuels Association and National Corn Growers Association.
September 16, 2025 02:29 PM
·
Year-round sales of E-15 are another major topic on Capitol Hill, which, according to Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), is one issue up for debate this session with significant bipartisan support.
September 15, 2025 12:09 PM
·
Lawmakers have until September 30 to shore up federal spending for next year, or risk a government shutdown. The Farm Bill is also set to expire the same day.
September 15, 2025 11:57 AM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report for a closer look at how Trump’s Big, Beautiful Bill changes to base acres and potential impacts on future ARC and PLC payments.
September 11, 2025 01:36 PM
·
Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID) joined us on Champions of Rural America to share his insights on upcoming changes to public land management and how they will benefit agriculture and the Western working class.
September 11, 2025 01:21 PM
·
