The ag industry is a powerful economic driver and has seen strength in recent years.
New research shows the industry adds nearly $10 trillion to the economy annually, and while it is a stunning number, it is not as high as it once was.
New data was released this week from Feeding the Economy, a group of more than 30 ag groups, like the Farm Bureau and NASDA. This year’s report shows U.S. agriculture will add $9.5 trillion to the economy this year, along with 1,000,000 jobs. Last year the industry brought in $9.6 trillion.
Despite the decline, they found that agriculture has seen big growth since the pandemic, but they do remain cautious about continued pressure.
A big area of the report featured ag manufacturing. It shows jobs in that sector have fallen year over year, with around 30,000 jobs gone since 2020. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us this week on Market Day Report, and they say they have seen sales numbers decline in recent months, and are urging lawmakers to take action, starting with a Farm Bill.
Purdue University Professor of Agricultural Economics Dr. Jim Mintert shares a closer look at farmer sentiment and the key issues shaping the agricultural economy in January.
February 04, 2026 10:53 AM
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Stronger U.S.-Guatemala trade rules favor dependable, regionally integrated supply chains — rewarding execution and commitment over cost-only sourcing.
February 04, 2026 09:00 AM
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China-led demand continues to anchor soybean and sorghum exports despite weekly swings.
February 04, 2026 06:00 AM
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Clearer 45Z rules favor U.S. oilseeds, but final RFS volumes remain critical to locking in demand.
February 03, 2026 12:39 PM
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Even small declines in the calf crop translate into sustained supply pressure, supporting cattle prices over multiple years.
February 03, 2026 12:22 PM
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Economists are also closely watching how policy decisions in Washington could influence markets moving forward. Analysts say deferred futures for corn, soybeans, and wheat suggest markets are operating near break-even levels, not at prices that would encourage expanded production.
February 02, 2026 12:13 PM
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