The tariff back-and-forth is clouding the future grain markets, analysts warn

The White House tariff plan appears to be back on track for now, but CoBank warns that all this back-and-forth is clouding the future grain markets.

Analysts there say a lack of clarity around tariffs is already pulling down new crop sales, and in some cases, will be below historical averages. CoBank warns that the longer it goes on, the harder it will be for export-reliant elevators.

Ag Senator Tammy Baldwin is also weighing in. She says the events in recent weeks have caused big issues for farmers in her state.

“Export markets are in question. One of our discussions was how incredibly efficient we have become in growing things like corn and soybeans. We now, in Wisconsin and across the country, produce more than we need for on-farm use and sale in local markets, and so an increasing share goes into export markets, but that becomes a big question mark when there are uncertain tariffs threatened or imposed.”

Not all parts of the President’s tariff plan have been called into question by the courts. The added duties on cars, steel, and aluminum have been held in place since they were enacted.

Related Stories
$15 billion in U.S. energy, $4.5 billion ag products, 50 Boeing jets—plus a 19% tariff on Indonesian exports in exchange for U.S. market access.
If you don’t push back, do you get a better deal?

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us to discuss the latest crop progress report and how market uncertainty and input costs are shaping planting decisions this spring.
The Farm Monitor takes us along to see how they’re leaning on technology to improve poultry production.
Students say the program builds confidence, teamwork and a sense of purpose.
Roger McEowen breaks down the EPA’s updated dicamba regulations and shares what farmers need to do to remain compliant under the new rules this growing season.
Jarrod Hardke with the University of Arkansas break down extreme drought conditions, shifting planting decisions, and the impact of rising input costs on Arkansas agriculture this season.