USDA Undersecretary nominee says U.S. has let other nations “rig” farm trade against American farmers

The nominee for USDA Undersecretary of Agriculture for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs says the U.S. has “given up” its role in feeding the world.

Trade nominee Luke Lindberg tells lawmakers that enough is enough.

“Our ethanol producers are no longer competitive in Brazil because of Brazilian import tariffs. Our hog farmers cannot export pork to Brazil, India, Nigeria, Jamaica, Namibia, or Thailand. Mexico has enjoyed a 557% increase in specialty crop imports into the United States in just the last decade. Canada has rigged the USMCA agreement terms against our dairy and wheat farmers.”

Lindberg says another major offender is the EU, noting it is responsible for about half of the U.S. trade deficit. He tells lawmakers he wants to take a “strategic and targeted” approach when assessing the markets. From there, he says they can begin breaking down trade barriers. Lindberg still faces a full Senate vote.

Related Stories
Larger grain stocks increase supply pressure, but strong fall disappearance — especially for corn and sorghum — suggests demand remains an important offset.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us to provide analysis on the January WASDE report and expectations for grain markets going forward.
Strong pork demand and improving beef exports outside China support protein markets despite ongoing trade barriers.
Market reaction was bearish for corn and soybeans, with analysts noting that abundant supplies amid tepid demand could keep price pressure on agricultural commodities.
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.
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.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Farm Bureau Economist Faith Parum discusses the latest Farm Bill proposal and the path ahead for Congress and U.S. agriculture.
The Ranger Road Fire spreads from the Oklahoma Panhandle into Kansas as high winds and red flag conditions persist
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold discusses the ongoing measles outbreak in the United States and the importance of vaccination awareness on this week’s Rural Health Matters.
Federal aid helps, but producers will bear most of the losses. Balance sheets may look stable, but margins remain fragile without policy support.