Sec. Rollins on Matching Countries’ Tariffs on Exports: It just makes sense

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins is currently testifying before the House Agriculture Committee. She is fielding questions on trade, animal health, and the MAHA report.

When asked about what the U.S. can do to expand market access by Iowa Congressman Randy Feenstra, she said matching other countries’ tariffs on exports just makes sense.

“I have been really surprised, but in the best way, at how excited these countries are for us to be on the ground, how they understand that the 15 percent average tariff put on our American agriculture products versus the average 5 percent that we put on their products. They understand that it is not sustainable, that they’ve got to do better at putting our American products forward. As I mentioned, Italy imports $75 billion in ag products every year, only $1.7 billion of that is from America. This is one of our best partners, more aligned with our values than any other country.”

Related Stories
Rising cow numbers and higher yields are boosting milk supplies, which may keep pressure on prices and farm margins into the fall.
U.S. soybean farmers are growing increasingly frustrated by Argentina’s gains in Chinese grain contracts and Trump’s pledge of economic support for the South American ally.
The USDA is moving to close the farm trade gap through promotion, missions, and stronger export financing.
Fewer placements and historically low marketings point to tighter cattle supplies ahead, with Nebraska and Kansas gaining ground as Texas feedlots face supply pressure and the threat of New World Screwworm.
A new study by the National Grains and Feeds Association found that their industry generates $401.7 billion in economic output and supports over 1.16 million jobs nationwide.
As National Advisor, Carson will counsel both President Trump and Secretary Rollins on nutrition, healthcare access in rural areas, and housing. He will also serve as a key member of the MAHA Commission.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

While this month’s WASDE report will not include updated figures on U.S. crop size, officials say it will offer a clearer picture of crop conditions in the Southern Hemisphere.
USTR Jamieson Greer signals a narrower trade deal with China, adding more market uncertainty. The Farm Bureau also supports reviewing China’s missed trade commitments under the Phase One.
Southern producers head into 2026 with thin margins, tighter credit, and rising agronomic risks despite scattered yield improvements.
Record yields and exceptionally low BCFM strengthen U.S. corn’s competitive position in global markets.