GENEVA, SWITZERLAND (RFD-TV)— Global farm trade is bracing for fallout as higher U.S. tariffs trigger new disputes at the World Trade Organization. Brazil formally requested consultations with the U.S. on August 11, following earlier actions by Canada and China.
The moves come as Washington reimposed an additional 10 percent duty on imports from all trading partners, with higher rates on about 70 products, including key agricultural goods.
Soybeans, rice, fruits, and vegetables are among the most exposed sectors. China has yet to make significant new U.S. soybean purchases, while Canada’s consumers are shifting away from U.S. rice. Fruit exporters from South Africa and Chile warn that higher U.S. barriers could leave millions of cartons of citrus, cherries, and blueberries unsold.
Analysts note that input costs for farm machinery, chemicals, and other supplies could also rise as tariffs extend to equipment and imports critical for production.
Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: Higher tariffs may shield some U.S. crops but risk retaliation, lost markets, and higher costs for growers. The WTO disputes highlight the fragile balance between trade policy, farm exports, and input supply chains.
Jed Bower, the incoming president of the National Corn Growers Association, joined us for his sector’s perspective on the ongoing government shutdown.
October 08, 2025 11:41 AM
·
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent last week said an announcement would be made on Tuesday. However, that self-imposed deadline has now passed.
October 08, 2025 11:19 AM
·
Plan for a cooler global trade market in 2026 with tighter margins on exports, potential rate shifts, and premiums for reliable deliveries into Asian and African growth markets.
October 07, 2025 03:24 PM
·
George Baird, with the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA), joins us with updates on how this year’s rice harvest is shaping up.
October 07, 2025 03:12 PM
·
Dr. Todd Davis, Chief Economist with the Indiana Farm Bureau, shares a snapshot of his state’s harvest conditions and insights from producers.
October 07, 2025 02:37 PM
·
Market analyst Kevin Huddleston said news of trade deals could rebound cotton prices in late fall, and producers need to be ready to strike deals.
October 07, 2025 02:05 PM
·