Farm Economics

U.S. farmers are feeling the pinch as corn and soybean markets continue to fall — with China halting soybean purchases and redirecting its beef imports to Brazil and Australia. Meanwhile, new U.S. port fees targeting Chinese-owned and Chinese-built vessels threaten to raise export costs and further reduce global competitiveness for American grain. Cuts to the USDA and Forest Service budgets are adding to concerns for rural communities already under financial strain.

Farm economists say the U.S. ag economy is in recession, as trade wars, high costs, and lost exports to China deepen uncertainty for farmers.

U.S. agricultural economists agree that the trade war's impacts are troubling, while rising challenges in farming, fertilizer, and water allocation add to economic stress.

Farmers face a tough year as tariffs, fertilizer shortages, and trade wars impact crops, livestock, and costs, with some wary of political interference and government policies.

The January Ag Economists' Monthly Monitor predicts strong beef and pork production for 2025 but rising prices for consumers. Concerns over trade, tariffs, and immigrant labor continue.