Rep. Dusty Johnson Weighs in on U.S.-China Trade Deal, Ongoing Ag Challenges

U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD) shares his outlook on the developing U.S.-China Trade agreement, and the ongoing impact of the federal government shutdown—now stretching past four weeks—on rural communities and producers.

MITCHELL, S.D. (RFD-TV) — The ag sector is remaining cautiously optimistic following this week’s trade talks between the U.S. and China. While the one-year deal raises hopes for stronger exports and eased trade barriers, full details have yet to be released.

U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to share his outlook on the developing agreement.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, Rep. Johnson discussed what the deal could mean for U.S. farmers, including China’s pledge to buy 12 million metric tons of soybeans this season, and weighed in on whether the progress marks a lasting breakthrough or a short-term truce in trade relations.

The conversation turned to other ag topics, including concerns over potential U.S. beef imports from Argentina, the USDA’s new plan to strengthen the beef industry, and the ongoing impact of the federal government shutdown—now stretching past four weeks—on rural communities and producers.

Related Stories
House Agriculture Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson says the 2026 Farm Bill is bipartisan, with 82% of the bills incorporated into it receiving bipartisan support.
Reliable canal infrastructure supports long-term access to global agricultural markets.
Corn export pace remains the bright spot, but stable ethanol export demand remains a critical support for corn markets.
Rail consolidation could affect grain basis, freight rates, and service reliability across major producing regions.
Alan Bjerga of the National Milk Producers Federation discusses the Dairy Margin Coverage program, recent improvements, and what producers need to know ahead of this week’s enrollment deadline.
Glyphosate and phosphorus are deemed critical to U.S. national defense, ensuring farmers’ access while signaling a shift toward regenerative agriculture. RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney shares insight on the Trump Administration’s move and what it could mean for U.S. farmers moving forward.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The federal government’s status is far from the only factor moving the markets on Friday. Two critical reports released today on producer inflation and the status of the U.S. cattle herd are also top of mind.
UT Extension also offers tips to help consumers stretch their grocery budgets, including meal planning, sticking to a shopping list, and choosing store or generic brands.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar has four years remaining in her Senate term and could decide to continue serving in that role while campaigning for Governor of Minnesota.
STRAUSS CEO Henning Strauss joined us with a preview of “Meet Strauss: The Tool You Wear,” premiering live tonight at 7:30 ET — only on RFD Network and RFD+
FarmHER Chris Nellis and her daughters navigate loss while carrying on a 300-year farm legacy, milking cows in upstate New York.
USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg joined us with a recap of the Malaysia trade mission and a look at USDA’s broader trade strategy moving forward.