American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented Tuesday on President Trump’s decision to impose increased tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico and China.
“Farmers support the goals of ensuring security and fair trade with other nations, but additional tariffs, along with expected retaliatory tariffs, will take a toll on rural America,” Duvall posted on the AFBF’s website.
“Farmers and ranchers are concerned with the decision to impose increased tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico and China — our top trading partners. Last year, the U.S. exported more than $83 billion in agricultural products to the three countries.
“Approximately 85% of our total potash supply — a key ingredient in fertilizer — is imported from Canada. For the third straight year, farmers are losing money on almost every major crop planted. Adding even more costs and reducing markets for American agricultural goods could create an economic burden some farmers may not be able to bear.
“We ask the president to continue working with our international partners to find ways to resolve disagreements quickly, so farmers can focus on feeding families in America and abroad.”
The American Farm Bureau Federation is a national organization that advocates for farmers, ranchers and rural communities.
