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.
“A government shutdown impacts all Americans and has serious consequences, including for farmers. It just adds additional uncertainty, disrupts critical services.”
October 06, 2025 11:23 AM
·
Agricultural exports continue to be a key contributor to rural employment. However, rural businesses still struggle to fill numerous job openings.
October 06, 2025 10:46 AM
·
Dave Kestel, a farmer from Will County and member of the Illinois Farm Bureau, joins us to share a boots-on-the-ground update on the 2025 corn harvest.
October 03, 2025 02:30 PM
·
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated this week that the government will intervene to help, following China’s withdrawal from the U.S. soybean market. One trader says the industry will remain in a holding pattern until Tuesday.
October 03, 2025 01:04 PM
·
University of Illinois Ag Economist Gary Schnitker says early projections indicate soybeans will be more profitable than corn in 2026.
October 03, 2025 11:53 AM
·
In a final rule published in the Federal Register, the Department states that it will no longer base wage rates on the Farm Labor Survey.
October 02, 2025 11:20 AM
·
