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Addressing trade barriers critical for future of U.S. ag exports

A professor at Colorado State University says USMCA renegotiations could be an opportunity to ease trade tensions and expand market access for farmers.

Amanda Countryman says Mexico and Canada remain two of the largest U.S. agricultural trading partners. But, “There has been a lack of progress towards improved U.S. market access in general around the world,” she says. “That brings about concerns, especially from U.S. producers about access to foreign markets.”

She says ongoing trade disputes with China continue to add uncertainty to the ag economy.

“Discriminatory trade practices are still persistent,” she says. “Trade conflict with key partners remains. Geopolitical conflict is challenging for agriculture and it’s challenging for food security around the world. It’s challenging for stability overall.”

Farmers can submit feedback to office of the U.S. Trade Representative on the USMCA through November.

Countryman made her comments during the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago’s 2025 Midwest Agriculture Conference.