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Censky optimistic about agriculture outlook

USDA Deputy Secretary Steve Censky says he is optimistic about the future of the agriculture industry.

“That’s in part due to the trade agreements in addressing some long-standing market access barriers that have really negatively affected farmers and ranchers,” he says.  

He says the phase one agreement with China is a good example of progress on long-standing trade barriers.

“We’ve seen them address not only the market access barriers but also they’re purchasing agricultural products at a very rapid pace,” he says. “We’ve seen that in the markets for corn, soybeans, sorghum, beef, pork, poultry, and other products.”

Censky, speaking during Agri-Pulse’s Ag Outlook Forum, says he’s also optimistic about the outlook because of the support farmers and ranchers have received from the government in response to the coronavirus pandemic.