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Concerns grow over uncertainty in the ag economy for 2025

An economist says there are several issues that could create more uncertainty for the ag economy in 2025.  

Jay Rempe with Rolling Prairie Economics says he’s concerned about supply and demand for U.S. commodities. “We’re seeing prices in the doldrums right now. Unfortunately, I don’t see anything changing in the near future.”

He says he’s closely watching to see if the Trump administration can create new trade agreements or find a resolution on tariffs. “And, I’m a little nervous even beyond the short term of what this unrest – if you will – is doing in terms of potential markets. China is turning to South America and Japan is talking with Brazil about beef.”

And, Rempe, says several biofuels policies are up in the air. “There is a lot of decisions to be made at the federal level for the future of ethanol, renewable diesel and other biofuels that I think will be critical.”

Rempe says there are some positives with cattle prices and consumer demand for US beef remaining strong.