WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) — As producers continue to grapple with high input costs and challenging market conditions, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has announced a new five-step plan aimed at supporting the farm economy. The initiative includes a “Memorandum of Understanding” (MOU) with the Department of Justice to examine fertilizer and seed prices, two of the most pressing cost concerns for farmers.
Duane Simpson, CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC), joined us in Monday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on the plan and its potential impact on producers.
In his interview with RFD-TV News, Simpson underscored the financial strain that rising input costs have placed on farmers and expressed optimism that the MOU could help bring transparency and fairness to the market. He also addressed the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) decision to expedite $285 million through the America First Trade Promotion Program, stating that the investment could open new opportunities for U.S. agricultural products abroad at a crucial time during the harvest.
Simpson further reflected on the challenges facing the ag community—from unpredictable markets to weather and supply chain disruptions—and shared his thoughts on whether the USDA’s new measures will be enough to provide meaningful relief for farmers nationwide.
Beef demand could be influencing other economic sectors, as consumers adjust spending habits to prioritize higher-priced beef products.
Dr. Beetham outlined the background of the EU’s decision to modernize seed regulations and where the process stands today, and its impact on global agriculture and food security.
“It, all of a sudden, says that tracking and fighting hunger is not a priority, apparently, at the federal level.”
Colin Reilly with Connected Nation joined RFD-TV News to explain how the tool works and why it’s an important step in bridging the digital divide.
Jeremy Kelly explains how Darling Ingredients’ mission aligns with FFA’s values and why investing in future ag leaders is so important.
In a final rule published in the Federal Register, the Department states that it will no longer base wage rates on the Farm Labor Survey.
Farmers are in the midst of harvest as the government descends into a shutdown and the Farm Bill expires. Key federal departments, crop reporting, and aid programs important to the agricultural sector are now on hold.
Trump’s upcoming talks raise hopes for U.S. soybeans, but China’s record purchases from Brazil and Argentina show America’s market share remains under heavy pressure.
Farmers face tighter barge capacity and higher freight costs during peak harvest.
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