With possible stronger reciprocal tariffs coming, small farmers can’t take much more, ag groups warn

A major trade deadline is growing on the horizon. In a little more than two weeks, stronger reciprocal tariffs could be a reality. However, one trade group says farmers cannot take much more, saying the ag industry is getting squeezed in more ways than one right now.

“One, we’re trying to sell our products overseas, and that’s made harder by a trade war. Two, we’re relying on inputs, whether that’s farm chemicals or fertilizer or the steel that goes into tractors. All of that gets more expensive, so farmers get squeezed on both ends, and that’s where you see bankruptcies, people getting out of farming, suicides, these are all bad things that happen when farmers get squeezed,” said Brian Kuehl with Farmers For Free Trade.

Farmers For Free Trade suggests reaching out to your elected officials to let them know what is happening on the farm.

Related Stories
Shaun Haney, Host of RealAg Radio, discusses President Trump’s move to halt trade talks with Canada and Mexico over a commercial about tariffs launched by the Government of Ontario.
The review signals renewed scrutiny of China’s agricultural trade pledges and could reshape farm export opportunities depending on its outcome.
A fast-moving series of trade signals from the White House and key partners is resetting the near-term outlook for U.S. agriculture.
Stay alert for trade announcements—especially border reopening timelines, tariff threats, and developments in Brazil’s export flows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

USDA officials are increasing surveillance and sterile fly dispersal efforts as New World screwworm cases continue growing in Mexico near the Texas border.
Firefighters continue battling multiple wildfires across southwest Kansas as drought conditions fuel fire danger and raise concerns about additional cattle herd liquidation.
Dave Walton with the American Soybean Association joins us to discuss China’s new ag purchase commitments, E15 policy concerns, and spring planting conditions.
Jenna Stanton with the United States Cattlemen’s Association joins us to discuss beef import concerns, cattle market signals, and the latest developments surrounding U.S. beef trade.
Farmers will soon be asked to help shape some of USDA’s most closely watched crop and inventory reports.
RealAg Radio Host Shaun Haney joins us to discuss the latest U.S.-China ag trade agreements, market reaction, and what producers should watch moving forward.