Priorities for 2026: Navigating Trade, Policy and Elections
By Mike Joyner
Florida’s specialty crop producers and the wider agricultural industry continue to encounter significant challenges. This includes unfair trade, rising input costs and issues tied to both the cost and availability of labor. However, several emerging opportunities expected in 2026 may help drive meaningful change.
In last year’s column, I predicted that the new administration would implement rapid and assertive reforms, a forecast that materialized as we witnessed shifts in policies related to tariffs and immigration. Amid this rapid transformation, the industry also saw incremental relief through several key decisions, including wage stability, a key priority for the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association (FFVA). We expect this steady rate of change to continue into 2026. Here is a look at a few of those key areas that stand to impact our sector in the coming year and how FFVA is approaching them.
Confronting Unfair Trade
Six years after a trade agreement goes into effect, the participating countries review the agreement, consider amendments and determine if the agreement will be extended. The joint review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will take place this summer.
FFVA has prepared detailed comments and provided testimony during public hearings with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to underscore the damaging effects of unfair trade practices. Specialty crop imports from Mexico, often priced below the cost of domestic production, have had a devastating impact on Florida’s growers, threatening the long-term viability of the fresh produce industry.In its engagement with policymakers, FFVA has offered solutions to level the playing field. The association will continue to press for meaningful action that will provide immediate, effective and enforceable relief for growers.
Pushing for Farm Bill Progress
The farm bill remains the backbone of agricultural policy in the United States. FFVA, working alongside the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance, is dedicated to securing a new bill that adequately funds essential programs and bolsters specialty crop resources. Despite a history of bipartisanship, the farm bill is now entangled in current political divisions. The 2018 farm bill was once again extended by a continuing resolution signed by President Trump in 2025. This marks the farm bill’s third consecutive one-year extension since it expired in September 2023.
As of this writing, there was talk in Washington of a “skinny” farm bill, a scaled-down version addressing only the most immediate priorities. However, it appears likely that comprehensive reform will be postponed until 2026.
FFVA’s focus is to ensure that specialty crops receive the attention and support they need. Priorities include advocating for increased research funding, improving crop insurance and expanding market access.
Eyeing Mid-Term Elections
The upcoming mid-term elections and the already crowded race for Florida governor are poised to shape the direction of agricultural policy for years to come. Control of Congress and state leadership influence regulatory decisions, funding opportunities and trade negotiations that directly impact Florida growers.
FFVA remains active in the process, engaging with candidates and policymakers to keep agriculture at the forefront of their agendas. We encourage growers and agricultural professionals to stay informed and participate in the political process as well. The outcomes of these races will undoubtedly affect our industry’s future. Your voice and your advocacy are critical if we are to take advantage of the opportunities ahead.
Mike Joyner is president of the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association.