Soybean growers could take a hit this year if port fees are added to Chinese-built ships, Senator Chuck Grassley warns.
“Right now, our lower shipping costs make Ag products like Iowa corn and soybeans competitive with Brazilian corn and beans. If a maximum fee were put in place, our farmers would lose their edge and cede even more market share to competitors in South America.”
Grassley says he hopes U.S. Trade Rep Jamieson Greer takes farmer concerns seriously as they decide the next steps. Some groups say smaller ports would suffer under the deal, possibly putting the supply chain in jeopardy.
Related Stories
The U.S. Meat Export Federation plans to expand its global market presence in the New Year and says it is focusing its appeal on the growing middle class worldwide.
New World Screwworm cases in Mexico, including one within 200 miles of the U.S. border, are adding pressure to livestock markets and trade decisions.
Cotton demand depends on demonstrating performance and reliability buyers can rely on, not messaging alone.
A look at the legislative year ahead as lawmakers return to Washington with a slate of trade concerns to tackle in 2026—from new Chinese tariffs on beef imports to the USMCA review this summer.
As markets anticipate a return to normal trading following the New Year’s holiday, the possibility of the southern border re-opening to cattle is capturing much attention.
Cuba remains a small but dependable, cash-only outlet for U.S. grain and food products.
