In a recent development, the President of the National Farmers Union (NFU), Rob Larew, has expressed concerns following the White House's announcement about reciprocal tariffs. Larew emphasized that "American family farmers and ranchers will bear the brunt of this global trade war," highlighting the increasing economic strain and uncertainty within the agricultural sector.
According to Larew, without substantial support and a commitment to fair trade policies, the consequences could be dire. "We will lose even more family farms, weaken rural economies, and ultimately drive up costs and limit choices for consumers at the grocery store," he stated. Larew reiterated the Farmers Union's longstanding fight for equitable trading relationships with other nations as essential for the prosperity of American agriculture.
The announcement is creating instability, as per Larew's assessment, affecting not only family farmers but also impacting the food system and local communities. He stressed that "policymakers must recognize that the consequences of these decisions extend far beyond the farm—our entire food system and the communities it sustains are at stake."
In response to the situation, NFU, along with 17 other agricultural organizations, sent a letter to the administration. The letter urged a trade strategy that seeks to reinforce American agriculture rather than cause disruption.
