Texas Corn Producers Association (TCPA) President Wesley Spurlock, a farmer from Stratford, Texas, issued the following in response to President Donald Trump and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announcement to assist farmers in response to trade damage from unjustified retaliation and trade disruption:
“While Texas farmers would prefer earning their livelihoods through an open marketplace, rather than a relief payment, we welcome the administration’s announcement for a relief strategy for the industry weathering the blows from ongoing trade disputes. We appreciate the administration’s commitment to standing behind America’s farmers.
Drawn out trade negotiations and tariffs are hitting the agricultural industry and the nation’s heartland from many angles. The impact for farmers is beyond losing direct markets for corn, but also reducing market opportunities for corn products such as livestock and ethanol, and steadily increasing input costs. The financial certainty for America’s farmers and domestic food production has been put at risk.
Recognizing the role trade disruptions play in the plight of farmers, trade mitigation is gravely needed across the board for all program commodities. TCPA is eager to see this intricate package laid out by the administration and stands ready to work with USDA in ensuring all farmers facing the calamities from trade disputes receive the support they desperately need.
TCPA is pleased the administration is actively acknowledging the detrimental impact trade disruptions have on farmers, their businesses, and the agricultural industry as a whole – ultimately threatening America’s ability to have a thriving domestic food source and rural economy.”
