The ag sector is keeping a close eye on potential port fees targeting Chinese-built ships. While it aims to strengthen the administration’s “America first” trade agenda, many are concerned it could result in increased costs for U.S. farmers.
CEO of the World Shipping Council, Joe Kramek spoke with RFD-TV’s own Suzanne Alexander on testifying at the USTR hearing, ripple effects on farm exports, and what this will mean for the ag economy.
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With port fees now lifted, economists believe that could help ease tensions. However, American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Faith Parum said trade deals with smaller Asian countries are helping stabilize the ag economy.
Stagger buys and diversifies fertilizer sources — watch CBAM, India’s tenders, and Brazil’s import pace to time urea, phosphate, and potash purchases.
Tight cattle supplies keep prices high for ranchers, but policy shifts, export barriers, and packer losses signal a volatile road ahead for the beef supply chain.
Recognizing phosphorus and potash as critical minerals underscores their importance in crop production and food security, providing producers with an added layer of risk protection.
Pork producers should prioritize health and productivity gains, hedge feed and hogs selectively, and watch Brazil’s export pace and China’s sow policy for price signals.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer shares insight into what these new accounts, established in provisions of the Big, Beautiful Bill, could mean for the farm families.