The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has launched a Section 301 investigation into Brazil’s trade practices, signaling a potential shift in long-standing agricultural trade tensions. The investigation, initiated under the Trade Act of 1974, will assess whether Brazil’s policies—including preferential tariffs and restricted ethanol market access—are unfair, discriminatory, or harmful to U.S. commerce. Ethanol Access a Key …
North Georgia Technical College Offers Ag Programs to Students
North Georgia Technical College (NGTC) is opening new doors for students passionate about agriculture. As demand for skilled professionals in farming, ag technology, and animal science continues to grow, NGTC is stepping up to provide hands-on education and workforce-ready training for the next generation of agricultural leaders. Agricultural Programs with a Practical Focus Rusty Logan, Department Chair for Agriculture at …
Big Crops Get Bigger
U.S. Corn and Soybean Ratings Near Historic Highs Mid-July typically marks a turning point in crop conditions, often trending lower as the growing season advances. But 2025 is defying expectations. This year, the crops are not just holding steady—they’re thriving. The phrase “big crops get bigger” is echoing among veteran grain traders, and the data backs it up. Corn Ratings …
George Washington Helped Grow American Farming
When the Revolutionary War ended and America gained its independence, survival wasn’t guaranteed. What helped the new nation thrive was a growing agricultural economy. George Washington—more than a general and statesman—was also a pioneering farmer. He fertilized his fields using animal waste and lime, and practiced early crop rotation to maintain soil health. As wheat prices surged in Europe due …
Georgia Ag Commissioner Shares Importance of Ag role in National Security
Georgia Ag Commissioner Tyler Harper joined USDA officials last week in Washington, D.C., for the announcement of the new National Farm Security Action Plan, a multi-point initiative aimed at safeguarding American agriculture from growing threats. Speaking with Southeast AgNet, Commissioner Harper emphasized the urgent need for such a plan, calling agriculture a matter of national security. “A Nation That Can’t …
IDFA Announces Removal of Artificial Food Dyes
Voluntary Commitment Announced in Washington, D.C. During a ceremony at the U.S. Department of Agriculture headquarters in Washington, D.C., the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) announced a voluntary commitment to remove all certified artificial food dyes from ice cream and frozen dairy products by 2028. The announcement was made alongside U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, Secretary of Health and …
APRES Meets in Louisville
Advancing Peanut Science Through Global Collaboration This week marks a significant event for the peanut industry, as researchers and industry professionals gather in Louisville, Kentucky, for the annual meeting of the American Peanut Research and Education Society (APRES). With members representing over 20 countries and the eight U.S. states that grow peanuts, the conference serves as a critical hub for …
Trade Mission Underway in the Dominican Republic
USDA Trade Mission Aims to Strengthen Latin American Partnerships Michelle Bekkering, Deputy Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), led a high-level agribusiness trade mission to the Dominican Republic this week. The goal: expand market access and boost exports of American agricultural products throughout Latin America. The U.S. delegation includes 47 agribusinesses and …
President Trump Announces Trade Deal with Indonesia
New Agreement Delivers Tariff-Free Access for U.S. Exports President Donald Trump announced earlier this week via Truth Social that the United States has finalized a comprehensive trade agreement with the Republic of Indonesia. The newly confirmed deal represents a significant win for the American agriculture and energy sectors, as well as for the broader U.S. export economy. According to the …
Pricing the Future of Corn and Soybeans
Corn Futures Hover Near Support Ahead of Harvest As the market approaches the end of the week, December corn futures are flirting with the $4.07 level. However, analysts point to $4.00 as a solid support point, with both domestic users and international importers prepared to purchase at any further price declines. The corn crop is now sufficiently close to harvest, …