U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai testified before the Senate Finance Committee last week, and the discussion turned contentious. 

The Hagstrom Report says both Democrats and Republicans had a lot to say about the administration’s agricultural trade policies. 

Committee Chair Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said he has real concerns that USTR isn’t doing enough to break down the barriers our exporters face. 

“I’ll draw a line here – the U.S. cannot conclude agreements with Japan, Indonesia, or the EU that leave issues facing our exports unaddressed,” Wyden said. In other remarks, Tai said she’s open to trade talks with China. 

“While we keep the door open to conversations with China, including on its Phase 1 agreement commitments,” she said during prepared remarks, “we must also defend our values and economic interests from the negative impacts of China’s unfair economic practices.” Her remarks didn’t indicate specific plans for discussions with China’s new economic team.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai testified before the Senate Finance Committee last week, and the discussion turned contentious. The Hagstrom Report says both Democrats and Republicans had a lot to say about the administration’s agricultural trade policies. Committee Chair Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said he has real concerns that USTR isn’t doing enough to break down the barriers our exporters face. “I’ll draw a line here – the U.S. cannot conclude agreements with Japan, Indonesia, or the EU that leave issues facing our exports unaddressed,” Wyden said. In other remarks, Tai said she’s open to trade talks with China. “While we keep the door open to conversations with China, including on its Phase 1 agreement commitments,” she said during prepared remarks, “we must also defend our values and economic interests from the negative impacts of China’s unfair economic practices.” Her remarks didn’t indicate specific plans for discussions with China’s new economic team.

USTR hearing before Senate Committee gets testy

The USDA’s Economic Research Service released a report titled “U.S. Export Competitiveness in Select Crop Markets,” and it showed the U.S. is still the world’s top corn exporter. 

The report says that export shares and exports-to-production ratios indicate that the United States is still the top exporter of corn, tree nuts, and cotton. 

However, it also says other competitors have gained shares in the global wheat and soybean markets. 

“Over the last decade, the U.S. lost its position in the global wheat market as the EU, Russia, and Ukraine gained market shares,” the report says. “Similarly, Brazil and Argentina continue to pose a challenge to U.S. soybean exports.” Brazil has been the largest exporter of soybean oilseed since 2021. 

The ERS report also shows the United States’ involvement in trade agreements contributes to its export competitiveness. “From 2012 through 2020, the U.S. didn’t establish any new free trade agreements,” the report says.

The USDA’s Economic Research Service released a report titled “U.S. Export Competitiveness in Select Crop Markets,” and it showed the U.S. is still the world’s top corn exporter. The report says that export shares and exports-to-production ratios indicate that the United States is still the top exporter of corn, tree nuts, and cotton. However, it also says other competitors have gained shares in the global wheat and soybean markets. “Over the last decade, the U.S. lost its position in the global wheat market as the EU, Russia, and Ukraine gained market shares,” the report says. “Similarly, Brazil and Argentina continue to pose a challenge to U.S. soybean exports.” Brazil has been the largest exporter of soybean oilseed since 2021. The ERS report also shows the United States’ involvement in trade agreements contributes to its export competitiveness. “From 2012 through 2020, the U.S. didn’t establish any new free trade agreements,” the report says.

ERS releases report on U.S. export crop competitiveness

Tyson Foods recently announced it will be closing a Virginia processing plant in May. 

The two-month notice given to its chicken suppliers has raised concerns among farmers and legal experts about Tyson’s compliance with antitrust regulations. 

Those regulations require a company like Tyson to give a 90-day notice before they end a contract. 

The planned closure means chicken producers are scrambling to find new buyers in a region with few or no options. Reuters says there may be forthcoming fines for Tyson under the Packers and Stockyards Act, the U.S. antitrust law requiring the minimum advance warning. 

However, Tyson says it’s not canceling any farmers’ contracts and will pay the growers for the full remainder of their contracts, keeping them in compliance with federal antitrust regulations. Antitrust issues in meatpacking have been a priority for the USDA because four companies control up to 85 percent of the beef, pork, and chicken markets.&nbsp;

Tyson Foods recently announced it will be closing a Virginia processing plant in May. The two-month notice given to its chicken suppliers has raised concerns among farmers and legal experts about Tyson’s compliance with antitrust regulations. Those regulations require a company like Tyson to give a 90-day notice before they end a contract. The planned closure means chicken producers are scrambling to find new buyers in a region with few or no options. Reuters says there may be forthcoming fines for Tyson under the Packers and Stockyards Act, the U.S. antitrust law requiring the minimum advance warning. However, Tyson says it’s not canceling any farmers’ contracts and will pay the growers for the full remainder of their contracts, keeping them in compliance with federal antitrust regulations. Antitrust issues in meatpacking have been a priority for the USDA because four companies control up to 85 percent of the beef, pork, and chicken markets.&nbsp;

Plant closure raises Antitrust concerns

The Next Generation Fuels Act was reintroduced in the Senate, a move that drew praise from the National Corn Growers Association. 

The legislation, one of NCGA’s top agricultural advocacy priorities, would lower fuel prices, reduce carbon emissions, and help keep America’s energy secure. 

The Act would clean up the nation’s fuel supply and transition new vehicles to use cleaner, more efficient fuels that also lower costs for drivers. 

It would establish a clean, high-octane standard for fuel and require that sources of additional octane result in at least 40 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions. That would allow automakers to significantly improve vehicle fuel efficiency through advanced engines. 

The legislation builds on the nation’s clean energy progress by advancing higher ethanol blends and new vehicles that work together to deliver greater emissions reductions, cost savings, and consumer choice. The Act would also permanently remove barriers that prohibit access to year-round ethanol.

The Next Generation Fuels Act was reintroduced in the Senate, a move that drew praise from the National Corn Growers Association. The legislation, one of NCGA’s top agricultural advocacy priorities, would lower fuel prices, reduce carbon emissions, and help keep America’s energy secure. The Act would clean up the nation’s fuel supply and transition new vehicles to use cleaner, more efficient fuels that also lower costs for drivers. It would establish a clean, high-octane standard for fuel and require that sources of additional octane result in at least 40 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions. That would allow automakers to significantly improve vehicle fuel efficiency through advanced engines. The legislation builds on the nation’s clean energy progress by advancing higher ethanol blends and new vehicles that work together to deliver greater emissions reductions, cost savings, and consumer choice. The Act would also permanently remove barriers that prohibit access to year-round ethanol.

Next Generation Fuels Act reintroduced in the Senate

Farmers Business Network released its 2023 Ag Chemical Price Transparency Report which highlights the extreme price variation facing farmers. 

The report collected information from 37 states and accounts for over 800 insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides. 

“The last two years have seen extreme fluctuations in chemical pricing for farmers,” says Kevin McNew, chief economist and VP of FBN Research. 

“Providing more transparency enables producers to make more informed buying decisions to drive ROI from every input dollar.” Across 236 different chemical products, there was a 15 percent variance, on average, between the average list price of a product and the price farmers actually paid for it. 

For example, the average list price for Roundup PowerMAX 3 in June 2022 was $60 per gallon, but farmers paid between $45-$73 during that time. FBN says extreme farmer-to-farmer variability suggests that chemical markets make it challenging for farmers to get uniform costs for ag chemicals. &nbsp;

Farmers Business Network released its 2023 Ag Chemical Price Transparency Report which highlights the extreme price variation facing farmers. The report collected information from 37 states and accounts for over 800 insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides. “The last two years have seen extreme fluctuations in chemical pricing for farmers,” says Kevin McNew, chief economist and VP of FBN Research. “Providing more transparency enables producers to make more informed buying decisions to drive ROI from every input dollar.” Across 236 different chemical products, there was a 15 percent variance, on average, between the average list price of a product and the price farmers actually paid for it. For example, the average list price for Roundup PowerMAX 3 in June 2022 was $60 per gallon, but farmers paid between $45-$73 during that time. FBN says extreme farmer-to-farmer variability suggests that chemical markets make it challenging for farmers to get uniform costs for ag chemicals. &nbsp;

Farmers face extreme variation in the price of inputs

The Energy Information Administration says ethanol production dropped below an average of a million barrels a day during the week ending on March 17. 

That’s the first time production dropped below that mark in over two months. Output totaled 997,000 barrels a day, on average. 

That’s down from 1.04 million barrels a day during the prior week and the lowest since the seven days ending on January 6. 

The country’s largest-producing region is the Midwest, which saw production drop to 954,000 barrels a day from 966,000 the previous week. That’s also the lowest since early January. Gulf Coast production dropped an average of 8,000 barrels to 24,000 barrels per day. 

East Coast and West Coast production totals were the only ones higher than the prior week, with each rising about 1,000 barrels to an average of 11,000 and 5,000 barrels a day, respectively. Stockpiles averaged about 26.188 million barrels a day.

The Energy Information Administration says ethanol production dropped below an average of a million barrels a day during the week ending on March 17. That’s the first time production dropped below that mark in over two months. Output totaled 997,000 barrels a day, on average. That’s down from 1.04 million barrels a day during the prior week and the lowest since the seven days ending on January 6. The country’s largest-producing region is the Midwest, which saw production drop to 954,000 barrels a day from 966,000 the previous week. That’s also the lowest since early January. Gulf Coast production dropped an average of 8,000 barrels to 24,000 barrels per day. East Coast and West Coast production totals were the only ones higher than the prior week, with each rising about 1,000 barrels to an average of 11,000 and 5,000 barrels a day, respectively. Stockpiles averaged about 26.188 million barrels a day.

Ethanol output drops below one million barrels a day

Representative Josh Gotthemier this week urged electric vehicle manufacturers to include AM radio in their cars and trucks. 

The New Jersey Democrat says, "I would think that if Elon Musk has enough money to buy Twitter and send rockets to space, he can afford to include AM radio in his Teslas." 

The lawmaker says that despite the public safety uses of AM radio, many EV manufacturers have stopped including AM radio in their vehicles. 

AM radio is the backbone behind America's National Public Warning System, which provides emergency-alert and warning information to the public during major natural disasters and domestic threats. 

Gottheimer is writing to major EV auto manufacturers urging them to reconsider their decision to discontinue AM radio in their cars. 

Gottheimer also called on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to add AM radio to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards to require that all automakers include AM radio as a stock feature in their vehicles.

Representative Josh Gotthemier this week urged electric vehicle manufacturers to include AM radio in their cars and trucks. The New Jersey Democrat says, "I would think that if Elon Musk has enough money to buy Twitter and send rockets to space, he can afford to include AM radio in his Teslas." The lawmaker says that despite the public safety uses of AM radio, many EV manufacturers have stopped including AM radio in their vehicles. AM radio is the backbone behind America's National Public Warning System, which provides emergency-alert and warning information to the public during major natural disasters and domestic threats. Gottheimer is writing to major EV auto manufacturers urging them to reconsider their decision to discontinue AM radio in their cars. Gottheimer also called on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to add AM radio to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards to require that all automakers include AM radio as a stock feature in their vehicles.

Lawmaker seeks to ensure AM radio in all vehicles

The National Corn Growers Association urged EPA officials to implement a petition from Midwest governors that would remove barriers to higher blends of ethanol and avoid further delay. 

EPA’s public hearing reviewed the agency’s recent proposal to implement a plan from eight Midwest governors to require lower-volatility gasoline so drivers in those states continue to have year-round access to fuel with 15 percent ethanol, often marketed as Unleaded 88. 

EPA has proposed delaying implementation of the governors’ plan until 2024. 

NCGA President Tom Haag took issue with the delays to date and urged EPA to avoid further delays in implementation. He also highlighted the emissions reduction benefits of E15 and the current cost savings of up to 20 cents or more per gallon when drivers choose E15. 

Haag says, “we now strongly urge EPA to implement this rule with an effective date of April 28, 2024 -- as proposed --without further delay.”

The National Corn Growers Association urged EPA officials to implement a petition from Midwest governors that would remove barriers to higher blends of ethanol and avoid further delay. EPA’s public hearing reviewed the agency’s recent proposal to implement a plan from eight Midwest governors to require lower-volatility gasoline so drivers in those states continue to have year-round access to fuel with 15 percent ethanol, often marketed as Unleaded 88. EPA has proposed delaying implementation of the governors’ plan until 2024. NCGA President Tom Haag took issue with the delays to date and urged EPA to avoid further delays in implementation. He also highlighted the emissions reduction benefits of E15 and the current cost savings of up to 20 cents or more per gallon when drivers choose E15. Haag says, “we now strongly urge EPA to implement this rule with an effective date of April 28, 2024 -- as proposed --without further delay.”

NCGA to EPA: Ensure consumer access to higher ethanol blends

The U.S. Grains Council this week signed an ethanol memorandum of understanding with the Industrial Association of Sugar Cane of Panama. 

The signing came as part of a USDA trade mission to South America. 

The Grains Council held a regional seminar in Panama City that brought together stakeholders and government officials from Central American countries and the Dominican Republic to learn about ethanol and gasoline blending in the region. 

The MOU recognizes the importance of assessing the role and benefits of biofuels and ethanol in promoting economic growth, diversification of the energy matrix and decarbonization of transportation in the global energy transition to address global greenhouse gas emissions. 

USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor says, "This MOU bolsters economic and energy security through both domestic production and strengthening trade ties between our two nations." Global ethanol consumption has grown from 16 billion gallons in 2010 to more than 27 billion in 2022.

The U.S. Grains Council this week signed an ethanol memorandum of understanding with the Industrial Association of Sugar Cane of Panama. The signing came as part of a USDA trade mission to South America. The Grains Council held a regional seminar in Panama City that brought together stakeholders and government officials from Central American countries and the Dominican Republic to learn about ethanol and gasoline blending in the region. The MOU recognizes the importance of assessing the role and benefits of biofuels and ethanol in promoting economic growth, diversification of the energy matrix and decarbonization of transportation in the global energy transition to address global greenhouse gas emissions. USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor says, "This MOU bolsters economic and energy security through both domestic production and strengthening trade ties between our two nations." Global ethanol consumption has grown from 16 billion gallons in 2010 to more than 27 billion in 2022.

Grains Council signs ethanol MOU in Panama

President Biden Tuesday announced two new actions to conserve and restore lands and waters across the nation. 

The effort includes establishing the Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in Nevada and Castner Range National Monument in Texas. 

The Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in Nevada will honor Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples while conserving public lands and growing America’s outdoor recreation economy, according to the White House. 

The Castner Range National Monument will expand access to the outdoors for the El Paso community while honoring veterans and servicemembers. Together, these new national monuments protect nearly 514,000 acres of public lands. 

The President also directed the Secretary of Commerce to consider initiating a new National Marine Sanctuary designation within 30 days to protect all U.S. waters around the Pacific Remote Islands. If completed, the new sanctuary would ensure the U.S. will reach the President's goal of conserving at least 30% of ocean waters under American jurisdiction by 2030.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679499076139.jpeg" alt="Castner Range National Monument in Texas- White House Photo" />
 <figcaption>Castner Range National Monument in Texas- White House Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>President Biden Tuesday announced two new actions to conserve and restore lands and waters across the nation. The effort includes establishing the Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in Nevada and Castner Range National Monument in Texas. The Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in Nevada will honor Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples while conserving public lands and growing America’s outdoor recreation economy, according to the White House. The Castner Range National Monument will expand access to the outdoors for the El Paso community while honoring veterans and servicemembers. Together, these new national monuments protect nearly 514,000 acres of public lands. The President also directed the Secretary of Commerce to consider initiating a new National Marine Sanctuary designation within 30 days to protect all U.S. waters around the Pacific Remote Islands. If completed, the new sanctuary would ensure the U.S. will reach the President's goal of conserving at least 30% of ocean waters under American jurisdiction by 2030.

Biden creates new National Monuments to conserve land and waters

Feeding America this week announced the launch of Farmers Feed America. 

The organization says the broad coalition shows that farmers and food banks are united in calling for a strong 2023 Farm Bill that meets the needs of America's farmers and protects federal nutrition programs. 

The new nonpartisan coalition comprises farmers, food companies, food retailers, and hunger-relief organizations, including Feeding America and the American Farm Bureau Association. 

This year's farm bill reauthorization process is an opportunity to reflect on the innovations that worked during the pandemic and apply those learnings to future food and nutrition policy, according to the organization. 

The Farmers Feed America coalition has come together to establish shared principles for the next farm bill that help meet the continued needs of communities facing hunger, bolster the nation's food resilience, and enhance markets for farmers and ranchers. The coalition urges members of Congress to adopt these principles as they write the 2023 Farm Bill.

Feeding America this week announced the launch of Farmers Feed America. The organization says the broad coalition shows that farmers and food banks are united in calling for a strong 2023 Farm Bill that meets the needs of America's farmers and protects federal nutrition programs. The new nonpartisan coalition comprises farmers, food companies, food retailers, and hunger-relief organizations, including Feeding America and the American Farm Bureau Association. This year's farm bill reauthorization process is an opportunity to reflect on the innovations that worked during the pandemic and apply those learnings to future food and nutrition policy, according to the organization. The Farmers Feed America coalition has come together to establish shared principles for the next farm bill that help meet the continued needs of communities facing hunger, bolster the nation's food resilience, and enhance markets for farmers and ranchers. The coalition urges members of Congress to adopt these principles as they write the 2023 Farm Bill.

New coalition calls for robust Farm Bill agriculture and nutrition funding

The Department of Agriculture this week announced the first investment of a $1 billion effort to mitigate wildfire risks as the nation faces an ongoing wildfire crisis. 

USDA announced a $197 million investment for 100 projects that benefits 22 states as part of the Community Wildfire Defense Grant program. 

USDA's Forest Service worked with states and tribes through an interagency workgroup to develop the Community Wildfire Defense Grant program, originally announced in June 2022. 

Grant proposals underwent a competitive selection process, including review panels of state forestry agencies and tribal representatives. The agency used the three priorities outlined in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to narrow down the communities in greatest need. 

These priorities included communities impacted by severe disasters, those with high or very high wildfire hazard potential or classified as low income. The initial round of investments will assist communities in developing Community Wildfire Protection Plans, key roadmaps for addressing wildfire risks locally.

The Department of Agriculture this week announced the first investment of a $1 billion effort to mitigate wildfire risks as the nation faces an ongoing wildfire crisis. USDA announced a $197 million investment for 100 projects that benefits 22 states as part of the Community Wildfire Defense Grant program. USDA's Forest Service worked with states and tribes through an interagency workgroup to develop the Community Wildfire Defense Grant program, originally announced in June 2022. Grant proposals underwent a competitive selection process, including review panels of state forestry agencies and tribal representatives. The agency used the three priorities outlined in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to narrow down the communities in greatest need. These priorities included communities impacted by severe disasters, those with high or very high wildfire hazard potential or classified as low income. The initial round of investments will assist communities in developing Community Wildfire Protection Plans, key roadmaps for addressing wildfire risks locally.

USDA announces wildfire prevention investments

The Biden administration's version of the Waters of the U.S. rule went into effect Monday. 

The National Cattlemen's Beef Association expressed displeasure in a District Court decision to deny a preliminary injunction of the rule. 

NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says, "This latest WOTUS rule will place more burdens on family farms and ranches, drive up costs, and prevent cattle producers like me from making investments in our land." 

The Environmental Protection Agency finalized the latest WOTUS rule at the end of 2022. NCBA and its litigation partners filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn the rule on January 18, 2023. 

NCBA sought a nationwide preliminary injunction, which would have prevented the federal government from implementing the WOTUS rule until the entire case is decided. 

Instead, the court granted a limited injunction in only two states—Texas and Idaho. NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart adds, “The court’s decision to keep the Biden administration’s WOTUS rule in place is concerning and irresponsible.”

The Biden administration's version of the Waters of the U.S. rule went into effect Monday. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association expressed displeasure in a District Court decision to deny a preliminary injunction of the rule. NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says, "This latest WOTUS rule will place more burdens on family farms and ranches, drive up costs, and prevent cattle producers like me from making investments in our land." The Environmental Protection Agency finalized the latest WOTUS rule at the end of 2022. NCBA and its litigation partners filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn the rule on January 18, 2023. NCBA sought a nationwide preliminary injunction, which would have prevented the federal government from implementing the WOTUS rule until the entire case is decided. Instead, the court granted a limited injunction in only two states—Texas and Idaho. NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart adds, “The court’s decision to keep the Biden administration’s WOTUS rule in place is concerning and irresponsible.”

NCBA concerned with District Court decision to let WOTUS rule stand

The United Nations Secretary-General over the weekend announced an extension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. 

The announcement came at the last minute as the agreement was set to expire. 

The Initiative facilitates the safe navigation for the exports of grain and related foodstuffs and fertilizers, including ammonia, from designated Ukrainian seaports. 

During the first two terms, some 25 million metric tons of grain and foodstuffs have been moved to 45 countries, helping to bring down global food prices and stabilizing the markets. 

The Black Sea Grain Initiative, alongside the Memorandum of Understanding on promoting Russian food products and fertilizers to the world markets, are critical for global food security, especially for developing countries. 

The original agreement was signed in July of 2022 to address the need for Ukraine to export agricultural products during the Russia-Ukraine war. Ukrainian officials indicate the agreement was extended for another 120 days.

The United Nations Secretary-General over the weekend announced an extension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. The announcement came at the last minute as the agreement was set to expire. The Initiative facilitates the safe navigation for the exports of grain and related foodstuffs and fertilizers, including ammonia, from designated Ukrainian seaports. During the first two terms, some 25 million metric tons of grain and foodstuffs have been moved to 45 countries, helping to bring down global food prices and stabilizing the markets. The Black Sea Grain Initiative, alongside the Memorandum of Understanding on promoting Russian food products and fertilizers to the world markets, are critical for global food security, especially for developing countries. The original agreement was signed in July of 2022 to address the need for Ukraine to export agricultural products during the Russia-Ukraine war. Ukrainian officials indicate the agreement was extended for another 120 days.

UN reaches Black Sea Grain Initiative extension

Department of Agriculture Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor arrived in Panama City Monday to launch a regional agribusiness trade mission. 

Taylor and the trade delegation on the trip look to develop stronger ties and build economic partnerships between the United States and Panama and markets throughout the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement region. 

Taylor says, “I’m confident the next few days will produce mutually beneficial results to help expand trade and increase collaboration on key issues impacting agriculture in the United States and Central America.” 

Local staff from FAS Panama City will host business meetings between U.S. trade mission delegates and companies from Panama and six other countries seeking to import American food and farm products. 

The itinerary also includes bilateral meetings with the Panamanian government, retail promotions featuring U.S. products, and a memorandum of understanding signing between the U.S. Grains Council and the Panamanian Sugar Cane National Industry on ethanal blending.

Department of Agriculture Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor arrived in Panama City Monday to launch a regional agribusiness trade mission. Taylor and the trade delegation on the trip look to develop stronger ties and build economic partnerships between the United States and Panama and markets throughout the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement region. Taylor says, “I’m confident the next few days will produce mutually beneficial results to help expand trade and increase collaboration on key issues impacting agriculture in the United States and Central America.” Local staff from FAS Panama City will host business meetings between U.S. trade mission delegates and companies from Panama and six other countries seeking to import American food and farm products. The itinerary also includes bilateral meetings with the Panamanian government, retail promotions featuring U.S. products, and a memorandum of understanding signing between the U.S. Grains Council and the Panamanian Sugar Cane National Industry on ethanal blending.

USDA kicks off Central America-Dominican Republic trade mission

African Swine Fever is making a resurgence in China and will potentially push prices higher for the most popular protein in the country. 

Bloomberg says multiple outbreaks have shown up in different parts of the country throughout the winter. 

Rabobank expects the most recent wave of ASF to significantly lower production capacity and push prices higher during the second quarter of 2023. 

The outbreak was most severe in the northern regions of the country, and multiple areas are still struggling with the disease. Rabobank estimates say the latest wave has hit 10 percent of the nation’s sow herd, which controls hog production. 

An outbreak in 2018-2019 decimated China’s pig herd, at the time, the largest herd in the world. The spike fueled inflation as pork is a key element in the Chinese consumer price index. Official estimates say 8-15 percent of total production could be lost in the current outbreak. &nbsp;

African Swine Fever is making a resurgence in China and will potentially push prices higher for the most popular protein in the country. Bloomberg says multiple outbreaks have shown up in different parts of the country throughout the winter. Rabobank expects the most recent wave of ASF to significantly lower production capacity and push prices higher during the second quarter of 2023. The outbreak was most severe in the northern regions of the country, and multiple areas are still struggling with the disease. Rabobank estimates say the latest wave has hit 10 percent of the nation’s sow herd, which controls hog production. An outbreak in 2018-2019 decimated China’s pig herd, at the time, the largest herd in the world. The spike fueled inflation as pork is a key element in the Chinese consumer price index. Official estimates say 8-15 percent of total production could be lost in the current outbreak. &nbsp;

African Swine Fever surging again in China

America’s top food and ag organizations representing thousands of farmers, ranchers, producers, and workers sent a letter to Congress urging action to improve ag exports. 

More than 50 of the most influential food and ag groups urged Congress to pass Trade Promotion Authority. 

TPA is regularly passed by Congress to give the administration objectives and guidance in pursuing tariff-cutting trade agreements. 

The letter notes when it comes to trade agreements with tariff reduction, the U.S. is falling behind global economic competitors like China and the European Union. “Regrettably, America is falling badly behind,” the letter says. 

“Between 2010 and 2020, China and the E.U. enjoyed over twice as much advantage from trade agreement tariff reductions as the U.S.” They also say the situation has gotten much worse this decade. “The United States has not implemented a comprehensive trade agreement that opens new markets in more than a decade,” the groups add.

America’s top food and ag organizations representing thousands of farmers, ranchers, producers, and workers sent a letter to Congress urging action to improve ag exports. More than 50 of the most influential food and ag groups urged Congress to pass Trade Promotion Authority. TPA is regularly passed by Congress to give the administration objectives and guidance in pursuing tariff-cutting trade agreements. The letter notes when it comes to trade agreements with tariff reduction, the U.S. is falling behind global economic competitors like China and the European Union. “Regrettably, America is falling badly behind,” the letter says. “Between 2010 and 2020, China and the E.U. enjoyed over twice as much advantage from trade agreement tariff reductions as the U.S.” They also say the situation has gotten much worse this decade. “The United States has not implemented a comprehensive trade agreement that opens new markets in more than a decade,” the groups add.

Organizations want Congress to pass TPA

The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service awarded the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association with $445,400 in funding to advance the Secure Beef Supply Plan. 

The plan would go into effect in the event of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in the U.S. 

“NCBA is grateful for this critical funding to help continue defending the U.S. cattle herd from the threat of foot-and-mouth disease,” says Allison Rivera, NCBA executive director of government affairs. 

“The Secure Beef Supply Plan combined with USDA’s national vaccine bank provides a strong safety net for cattle producers and multiple tools to mitigate the risk of a potential outbreak.” 

This funding was made available through the 2018 Farm Bill and shows why continued support and further funding for animal disease preparation measures like the Secure Beef Supply Plan and the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank are so important as Congress works on the 2023 Farm Bill.

The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service awarded the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association with $445,400 in funding to advance the Secure Beef Supply Plan. The plan would go into effect in the event of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in the U.S. “NCBA is grateful for this critical funding to help continue defending the U.S. cattle herd from the threat of foot-and-mouth disease,” says Allison Rivera, NCBA executive director of government affairs. “The Secure Beef Supply Plan combined with USDA’s national vaccine bank provides a strong safety net for cattle producers and multiple tools to mitigate the risk of a potential outbreak.” This funding was made available through the 2018 Farm Bill and shows why continued support and further funding for animal disease preparation measures like the Secure Beef Supply Plan and the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank are so important as Congress works on the 2023 Farm Bill.

USDA awards funding to protect U.S. Cattle from FMD

U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Association of Wheat Growers are disappointed that the Surface Transportation Board approved the merger of the Canadian Pacific Railway and Kansas City Southern Railroad. 

They believe the STB has given a green light to rail consolidation without regard for the consequences on agricultural shippers from a lack of competition in the U.S. rail sector. 

“U.S. rail consolidation has led to poorer, not improved, service for agricultural shippers,” says USW President Vince Peterson. 

“In addition, we see extreme disparity in rates for wheat shippers.” Higher shipping rates make U.S. wheat less competitive in the global market at a time when higher prices already hurt the competitiveness of American wheat. 

“With 50 percent of wheat getting exported, wheat is heavily reliant on rail transportation to move across the U.S.,” says NAWG CEO Chandler Goule. They say the STB must conduct more rigorous oversight of rail rates and service issues.

U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Association of Wheat Growers are disappointed that the Surface Transportation Board approved the merger of the Canadian Pacific Railway and Kansas City Southern Railroad. They believe the STB has given a green light to rail consolidation without regard for the consequences on agricultural shippers from a lack of competition in the U.S. rail sector. “U.S. rail consolidation has led to poorer, not improved, service for agricultural shippers,” says USW President Vince Peterson. “In addition, we see extreme disparity in rates for wheat shippers.” Higher shipping rates make U.S. wheat less competitive in the global market at a time when higher prices already hurt the competitiveness of American wheat. “With 50 percent of wheat getting exported, wheat is heavily reliant on rail transportation to move across the U.S.,” says NAWG CEO Chandler Goule. They say the STB must conduct more rigorous oversight of rail rates and service issues.

National wheat organizations disappointed in railroad merger

Helios Artificial Intelligence, Inc. launched the open beta of its platform that will identify agricultural supply chain disruptions ahead of time. 

The company’s founder and CEO says they’ve created a one-stop platform for agricultural importers to understand the risks to their supply chain and get ahead of their competitors. 

The AI platform will eventually predict supply availability ahead of a company’s competitors and find alternative suppliers before they do. 

It identifies climate and economic risks to yields and works with supply chain partners to mitigate them before it’s too late. The AI will also provide actionable input into the negotiation process with insights and access to billions of data points. 

Existing customers are seeing good results so far. William Hovis, who used to be with Coca-Cola, says when suppliers missed deliveries, the company was missing sales. “Helios provides companies with actionable insights to help them get ahead of competitors.”

Helios Artificial Intelligence, Inc. launched the open beta of its platform that will identify agricultural supply chain disruptions ahead of time. The company’s founder and CEO says they’ve created a one-stop platform for agricultural importers to understand the risks to their supply chain and get ahead of their competitors. The AI platform will eventually predict supply availability ahead of a company’s competitors and find alternative suppliers before they do. It identifies climate and economic risks to yields and works with supply chain partners to mitigate them before it’s too late. The AI will also provide actionable input into the negotiation process with insights and access to billions of data points. Existing customers are seeing good results so far. William Hovis, who used to be with Coca-Cola, says when suppliers missed deliveries, the company was missing sales. “Helios provides companies with actionable insights to help them get ahead of competitors.”

New AI platform will predict ag supply chain disruptions

Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) introduced the Advancing Cutting Edge Agriculture Act to support high-risk, high-reward agricultural research and development at USDA. 

The sponsors say the act will help “secure America’s food supply” and give farmers and ranchers the tools to meet the challenges of the 21st century. 

“Now more than ever, Americans have seen how vulnerable the nation’s food system can be,” Marshall says. 

“Targeting the many risks our food system faces through research will ensure that the U.S. continues to provide a safe, secure food supply for a growing world population.” 

Bennet also notes that family farmers and ranchers face persistent drought, higher costs, extreme weather, and increased global competition, saying, “That makes it more important than ever to invest in cutting-edge research to spur agricultural breakthroughs, including practices to conserve water and cut greenhouse gas emissions.” Companion legislation will be introduced into the House.

Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) introduced the Advancing Cutting Edge Agriculture Act to support high-risk, high-reward agricultural research and development at USDA. The sponsors say the act will help “secure America’s food supply” and give farmers and ranchers the tools to meet the challenges of the 21st century. “Now more than ever, Americans have seen how vulnerable the nation’s food system can be,” Marshall says. “Targeting the many risks our food system faces through research will ensure that the U.S. continues to provide a safe, secure food supply for a growing world population.” Bennet also notes that family farmers and ranchers face persistent drought, higher costs, extreme weather, and increased global competition, saying, “That makes it more important than ever to invest in cutting-edge research to spur agricultural breakthroughs, including practices to conserve water and cut greenhouse gas emissions.” Companion legislation will be introduced into the House.

Bill to support cutting-edge agricultural research

The National Corn Growers Association this week applauded legislation that would provide permanent, nationwide market access for E15, often marketed as Unleaded 88. 

NCGA reports 35 bipartisan Senate and House members introduced the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. 

NCGA President Tom Haag says, "There's no reason for market access to a safe, clean and affordable fuel option to remain in question." 

Despite EPA approving E15 for use in all 2001 and newer vehicles, and a 2019 update to regulations, a 2021 court decision would have ended year-round market access to E15. Temporary action by the Biden administration allowed E15 sales last summer, but access is in question for 2023. 

The Environmental Protection Agency proposed implementing a plan from eight Midwest governors to require lower-volatility gasoline in their states to ensure year-round E15. 

However, EPA has proposed to delay implementation until 2024. NCGA encourages the Biden administration to again provide temporary access for the 2023 summer driving season.

The National Corn Growers Association this week applauded legislation that would provide permanent, nationwide market access for E15, often marketed as Unleaded 88. NCGA reports 35 bipartisan Senate and House members introduced the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. NCGA President Tom Haag says, "There's no reason for market access to a safe, clean and affordable fuel option to remain in question." Despite EPA approving E15 for use in all 2001 and newer vehicles, and a 2019 update to regulations, a 2021 court decision would have ended year-round market access to E15. Temporary action by the Biden administration allowed E15 sales last summer, but access is in question for 2023. The Environmental Protection Agency proposed implementing a plan from eight Midwest governors to require lower-volatility gasoline in their states to ensure year-round E15. However, EPA has proposed to delay implementation until 2024. NCGA encourages the Biden administration to again provide temporary access for the 2023 summer driving season.

Bills providing permanent E15 fix introduced in House and Senate

Mexico’s Agriculture Ministry recently voiced concerns regarding the proposed voluntary “Product of USA” label effort. 

Announced by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack last week, the label claim would be used on meat, poultry and egg products only when derived from animals born, raised, slaughtered and processed in the United States. 

Mexico's Agriculture Ministry claims the proposal, "even when it is a voluntary claim, could have implications for discriminating against Mexican exports of live animals and meat products." 

Mexico is the second largest supplier of beef and beef products to the U.S., representing 24 percent of total U.S. imports. Congress repealed mandatory Country of Origin Labeling for meat products in 2016, after the World Trade Organization approved trade retaliations by Canada and Mexico over the issue. 

USDA says petitions, thousands of stakeholder comments, and data support its proposal. A comprehensive review in 2021 by USDA “shows there is a clear need to revise” the “Product of USA” label claim.

Mexico’s Agriculture Ministry recently voiced concerns regarding the proposed voluntary “Product of USA” label effort. Announced by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack last week, the label claim would be used on meat, poultry and egg products only when derived from animals born, raised, slaughtered and processed in the United States. Mexico's Agriculture Ministry claims the proposal, "even when it is a voluntary claim, could have implications for discriminating against Mexican exports of live animals and meat products." Mexico is the second largest supplier of beef and beef products to the U.S., representing 24 percent of total U.S. imports. Congress repealed mandatory Country of Origin Labeling for meat products in 2016, after the World Trade Organization approved trade retaliations by Canada and Mexico over the issue. USDA says petitions, thousands of stakeholder comments, and data support its proposal. A comprehensive review in 2021 by USDA “shows there is a clear need to revise” the “Product of USA” label claim.

Mexico voices concern over Product of US label

President of The Fertilizer Institute, Corey Rosenbusch, this week welcomed the introduction of the Lower Energy Costs Act. 

TFI says the legislation will provide a streamlined and simplified permitting process for hard rock mining, including phosphate and potash mining. 

Rosenbusch says, “Delays are measured in years and in the millions of dollars, with those paying the price being consumers who are already struggling with the rising costs of everyday goods.” 

The delays Rosenbusch referenced include a permit to mine phosphate in Florida that took nearly ten years and tens of millions of dollars in expert fees, studies, legal analysis, and legal fees, and a mining expansion permit for an existing mine that has been in limbo for over 12 years at a cost of over $25 million that has yet to be approved. 

The fertilizer industry is asking Congress for a reliable and predictable permitting process to ensure mining projects have a clear path toward compliance and approval.

President of The Fertilizer Institute, Corey Rosenbusch, this week welcomed the introduction of the Lower Energy Costs Act. TFI says the legislation will provide a streamlined and simplified permitting process for hard rock mining, including phosphate and potash mining. Rosenbusch says, “Delays are measured in years and in the millions of dollars, with those paying the price being consumers who are already struggling with the rising costs of everyday goods.” The delays Rosenbusch referenced include a permit to mine phosphate in Florida that took nearly ten years and tens of millions of dollars in expert fees, studies, legal analysis, and legal fees, and a mining expansion permit for an existing mine that has been in limbo for over 12 years at a cost of over $25 million that has yet to be approved. The fertilizer industry is asking Congress for a reliable and predictable permitting process to ensure mining projects have a clear path toward compliance and approval.

Fertilizer Institute welcomes Lower Energy Costs Act

The U.S. Meat Export Federation Tuesday announced the speaker lineup and registration details for its 2023 Spring Conference, set for May 24-26 in Minneapolis. 

The opening general session will feature USMEF's senior staff from the Asia Pacific region, who will discuss emerging issues in key Asian markets, including how the removal of many COVID restrictions could provide momentum for the region's foodservice sector. The following day, USMEF will examine the state of U.S.-Mexico trade relations. At the closing session, former House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson – who oversaw development of four farm bills during his 30 years in Congress – will discuss the challenges lawmakers face as they work to craft an effective, pro-trade farm bill over the coming year.

 In addition to the general sessions, the Beef, Pork, Exporter and Feedgrain/Oilseed breakouts will provide in-depth discussions on topics relevant to each sector. More information, including registration details, are available on the USMEF website, USMEF.org.

The U.S. Meat Export Federation Tuesday announced the speaker lineup and registration details for its 2023 Spring Conference, set for May 24-26 in Minneapolis. The opening general session will feature USMEF's senior staff from the Asia Pacific region, who will discuss emerging issues in key Asian markets, including how the removal of many COVID restrictions could provide momentum for the region's foodservice sector. The following day, USMEF will examine the state of U.S.-Mexico trade relations. At the closing session, former House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson – who oversaw development of four farm bills during his 30 years in Congress – will discuss the challenges lawmakers face as they work to craft an effective, pro-trade farm bill over the coming year. In addition to the general sessions, the Beef, Pork, Exporter and Feedgrain/Oilseed breakouts will provide in-depth discussions on topics relevant to each sector. More information, including registration details, are available on the USMEF website, USMEF.org.