NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — North American trade numbers are sending mixed signals for U.S. agriculture as the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) faces renewed attention.
Canada posted record exports in May, helped in part by farm and food products and stronger sulfur shipments. That matters because sulfur is tied to phosphate fertilizer production and can affect crop input costs.
Mexico may be the bigger farm story. USDA’s Economic Research Service says Mexico was the largest U.S. agricultural trading partner in 2025, with combined agricultural exports and imports totaling $74.5 billion.
The broader trade picture is less favorable. Census data show the U.S. goods deficit with Mexico reached $21.1 billion in May, while the overall U.S. trade deficit widened to $77.6 billion.
For agriculture, the relationship remains complementary. The U.S. exports grains, oilseeds, meat, dairy, and related products to Mexico. Mexico exports vegetables, fruit, beverages, and other food products to the U.S.
