By Jamie Martin
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), along with five other key agricultural organizations, has appealed to the Department of Commerce to assess the repercussions of imposing tariffs on the import of the herbicide 2,4-D.
This request was made in a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, highlighting concerns that such tariffs, proposed by Corteva, could drastically affect US farmers by creating shortages and escalating costs.
The coalition, which includes the American Soybean Association and the National Association of Wheat Growers among others, stressed the reliance of American farmers on 2,4-D, especially when Corteva remains the sole domestic supplier with insufficient stock.
They argued that restricting this critical supply could not come at a worse time, as farmers already face increased production costs and decreased commodity prices.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, farm production expenses are expected to reach record highs in 2024, while income from crop sales is predicted to drop significantly.
This financial strain could be exacerbated by additional costs from tariffs, potentially forcing farmers to reduce their budgets, which would adversely affect crop yields and the broader economic stability of rural areas.
The outcome of this petition, with preliminary duty rates to be decided by September, is being closely watched by the agricultural community, as it holds significant implications for the sector's sustainability and economic health.
Photo Credit: national-corn-growers-association
Categories: National