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
Debt pressures could reshape farm policy and credit.
India trade tensions may affect the U.S. export outlook.
Tariff revenues rarely flow directly back to farmers.
Weak crop margins and tariff uncertainty are delaying machinery purchases and signaling slower capital investment across U.S. agriculture.
Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty explains how the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling and ongoing ‘America First’ trade policy raise new questions about U.S. farmland values and agricultural market stability.
Purdue University’s Dr. Michael Langemeier discusses the survey’s findings in February and broader signals in the months ahead.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Market reaction was bearish for corn and soybeans, with analysts noting that abundant supplies amid tepid demand could keep price pressure on agricultural commodities.
The Farm Bureau’s honor highlights the important role farm dogs play on operations across the country, serving as dependable workers and trusted companions.
Logistics capacity remains available, but winter volatility favors flexible delivery and marketing plans. NGFA President Mike Seyfert provides insight into grain transportation trends, trade policy, and priorities for the year ahead.
Rising adoption of GLP-1 drugs may gradually reshape food demand, with potential downstream effects on protein markets and consumer purchasing patterns.
Traders are keeping a close eye on China’s soybean purchases as markets track export sales, shipments, and progress toward the ‘magical’ 12 million ton target promised last year.
Leadership development and bipartisan engagement remain central to advancing agriculture’s priorities in 2026.