By Clint Thompson
Tariffs implemented by the Trump Administration this year have been widely praised by some and heavily criticized by others. All will agree they have been impactful one way or another, especially with certain specialty crops destined for exports.
The House Committee on Agriculture recently hosted a special hearing on the State of the Specialty Crop Industry. One of the topics, posed by Congresswoman Alma Adams (N.C.-12), highlighted specialty crop exports and the impact of tariffs. She questioned each of those industry experts in attendance, “What impact do you foresee tariffs will be having on farm income for specialty crop growers?”
Here are their responses:
Tim Boring, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development: “We expect negative ramifications in the short term. We’re also concerned about the long-term stability of the markets. Our Michigan specialty crop industry is built on multi-faceted demand outlet; both domestic and international, fresh market, processing. It takes all of those things working in concert together to have a vibrant industry for our state. Continued access into international markets is really going to be critical for our ongoing success.”
Michael Franz, with Frantz Wholesale Nursery: “My nursery does not ship internationally, but my brother and I do farm almonds which is a powerhouse California crop. That crop is primarily an export market. In that regard we support trade agreements that support the free and fair trade and export of almonds.”
Dana Brennan, vice president, corporate affairs with Grimmway Farms: “I think it’s the unknown which is going to affect the markets greatly. I think that’s what we’re focused on.”
Specialty crop exports are extremely valuable, totaling $24.6 billion in FY 2023.
Tariffs are implemented as a way to protect U.S. businesses and correct trade imbalances, especially like what is impacting Southeast agriculture. But retaliatory tariffs are always a concern on exports from the U.S.