Soybean Growers Talking Tariffs, Trade on Capitol Hill

American Soybean Association farmer-leaders from across the country are on Capitol Hill this week to talk with lawmakers about the potential impact of Chinese tariffs on U.S. soybeans.

ASA President John Heisdorffer says China purchases 61 percent of U.S. soybean exports, as well as 30 percent of the overall U.S. soybean production. “In short, trade with China matters and is vital not only to the hundreds of thousands of U.S. soybeans producers but to rural economies and communities that depend on them,’ Heisdorffer says. “Today, we’re asking lawmakers to support their communities and constituents by joining ASA in encouraging the administration to rethink the Section 301 tariffs, and instead, empower soybeans to continue to be part of the solution.” He says the growers have come to D.C. and left their fields during planting season to educate and convey the importance of trade with China. Heisdorffer says the message is clear: “A 25 percent tariff on U.S. soybeans into China will have a lasting effect on every soybean farmer in America.”

From the National Association of Farm Broadcasting News Service.