The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is expected to release further details of its trade relief package Friday. The aid package previously announced by Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue will provide $12 billion in assistance to farmers hurt by President Trump’s trade agenda. Agri-Pulse reports that sources involved with the process say the payment rate for soybean farmers has been preliminarily proposed …
Mexico, U.S., Expected to Announce NAFTA Agreement Thursday
A handshake between Mexico and the United States is expected today (Thursday) on the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Politico reports the Trump administration is planning to formally announce a breakthrough with Mexico on the talks, which could pave the way for Canada to resume negotiations with the United States. The announcement is “on the schedule,” however, plans can, …
USMEF Solidifies Customer Relationships in Mexico
In an uncertain trade climate, the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) is working to solidify customer relationships in Mexico. Joe Schuele has the story. USMEF Solidifies Customer Relationships in Mexico
Canadians Happy with Trudeau Handling of NAFTA
Canadians are supportive of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s handling of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Canada is expected to rejoin the talks this week, as the U.S. and Mexico are working to reach an agreement. Meanwhile, a Canadian public opinion research firm, says 56 percent of Canadians approve of Trudeau’s handling of the ongoing NAFTA talks, representing an …
China Hopeful for FTA with Canada
China is hopeful to create a free trade agreement (FTA) with Canada as tension with the United States grows. China’s ambassador to Canada this week says he hopes to make progress on a free-trade agreement with Canada and others, according to Canada-based Global News. The U.S. and China remain locked in a tit-for-tat trade war and China is seeking options …
Canada May Rejoin NAFTA Talks this Week
Canada could rejoin the North American Free Trade Agreement talks by the end of this week, according to Politico. The move is a positive sign that the U.S. and Mexico could begin wrapping up their end of the deal quickly, paving the way for the U.S. to pivot towards negotiating with Canada. For weeks, Canada has been on the sidelines …
Survey: Commodity Prices Impacting Ag Retailers
A recent survey shows agriculture retailers are feeling the burden of fluctuating commodity prices. Low commodity prices and a volatile market stemming from trade concerns are on the minds of retailers, according to the survey published by Proagrica. 65 percent of respondents are feeling financial pressure due to fluctuating commodity pricing and competition. Elsewhere, 68 percent felt that enhanced management …
U.S., China, Far Apart in Trade War Talks
A Chinese delegation will travel to the U.S. as part of the ongoing trade war as both sides “remain far apart.” China said Thursday the delegation will meet with U.S. Treasury Undersecretary David Malpass to discuss trade issues. However, the South China Morning Post reports observers say the talks are unlikely to yield any breakthrough, but could lead to further …
NAFTA Talks Reach One-Year Mark, Close to U.S. Mexico Agreement
The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) renegotiation effort passed the one-year anniversary this week. A year ago Thursday, the U.S., Canada and Mexico convened for the start of the renegotiation talks. Now, the U.S. could be nearing a deal on NAFTA, at least with Mexico. Politico reports the political situation in both countries is such that each is more …
China Files WTO Complaint over U.S. Solar Tariffs
China’s latest shot in a tit-for-tat trade war is a World Trade Organization Complaint over U.S. solar tariffs. China filed a complaint with the WTO to help determine the legality of the U.S. policies, saying they not only harm China’s rights but also undermine the WTO’s authority, according to Reuters. China says the U.S. tariffs and the U.S. “decision to …