Tariff action could quickly heat up and affect soybeans, economists warn

Soy leaders are keeping a close watch on tariff action out of the White House. China is a major buyer of U.S. soybeans, and economists warn the situation could quickly heat up.

“They dominate the global oil seed market and they import more than the rest of the world combined. And in 2018, when those Section 301 retaliatory tariffs went into place, we saw prices drop overnight by $2.00 a bushel and our market share evaporate. You know, USDA’s Economic Research Service put out a study assessing the economic damages done to us as a result of the trade. It showed $27 billion in losses for U.S. ag, and of that amount, our soybeans accounted for 71%,” said Virginia Houston.

President Trump has given both Canada and Mexico a February 1st start date for tariffs. Some ag leaders have warned the plan could backfire, while others support the move as an effort to boost U.S. trade.

Related Stories
As ag lawmakers in the Senate await the House vote on the Farm Bill, they are eager to discuss the challenges farmers face before it is their turn to take up the critical legislation.
Productivity gains are supporting supply despite limited herd expansion.
Elena Chavez with Halter provided insight into the company’s virtual fencing technology, its adoption in the U.S., and the impact of recent funding on ranching operations.
The Biden Administration launched the Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access (ILCMA) program in 2023 to help underserved farmers facing barriers to land ownership.
Justin Tupper with the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association joins us to discuss the USDA’s voluntary labeling updates, industry priorities, and the outlook for U.S. cattle producers.
Higher machinery costs are raising per-acre production expenses.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo concluded last night, marking the end of another successful year showcasing youth exhibitors, livestock producers, and the spirit of agriculture.
Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
High fertilizer costs and global risks threaten spring margins for growers.