Trade policy is now the top concern for farmers, according to a Purdue University finding

A recent survey from Purdue University shows farmer sentiment is slipping in rural America, and economists say today’s problems are very different than just months ago.

“Back in August, before the election, 22 percent of the respondents in the survey chose interest rate policy as one of their top concerns versus 20 percent choosing trade policy. Since the election, over 40 percent, an average of 43 percent, of the respondents to the survey have chosen trade policy as their top concern. While the percentage choosing interest rate policy as a top concern has been falling, and this month was just ten percent,” said James Mintert.

Right now, Mintert says interest rate policy is a top concern for just 10 percent of those who responded.

Related Stories
Farm Bureau Economist Dr. Faith Parum warns farmers to brace for more losses as the war in Iran sends shockwaves through the ag economy and raises input costs even further.
Rising fertilizer costs tied to tariffs are tightening margins for U.S. wheat growers, according to new data from the National Association of Wheat Growers.
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, outlines potential risks for agriculture as negotiations continue between the two countries
Consistent sorghum quality supports strong export demand potential.
Corn and sorghum exports remain strong; soybean demand lags.
Secretary Rollins is signaling a possible reopening of the southern border to Mexican feeder cattle as officials work to manage the threat of the New World Screwworm.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Nationwide Agribusiness joins us in honor of National Safety Month, sharing some steps employers and workers can take to stay protected on the farm.
The Virginia Farm Bureau shows us how robotic milking technology has become a lifeline to the Commonwealth’s dairy industry, increasing production efficiency in the face of low milk prices and rising labor costs.
Keeping a close eye on Capitol Hill, farmers and ranchers wait with bated breath as President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” heads to the Senate. AFBF economist Danny Munch joins us for a closer look.
Over 94 percent of U.S. dairy farms are family-owned, carrying forward a legacy built over generations that supports three million jobs and generates more than $40 billion in wages.
What started as a childhood dream has turned into a Georgia man’s life’s work.