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Kehoe: Japan discussions could benefit MO ag

President Donald Trump says Japan has been negotiating reciprocal tariffs with the United States this week.

Earlier this month, the U.S. issued a 24% tariff on Japanese goods.

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe tells Brownfield he thinks tariffs have been an effective strategy so far.

“We need to make sure we’re getting the best deals for manufacturers, farmers and different people in the country as well as Missouri,” he says. “The tariff actions have brought more people to the negotiating table to where we can make a better deal for our country and stop being taken advantage of.”

Kehoe says there might be opportunities for Missouri agriculture as the U.S. meets with Japan.

“In the previous administration, Governor Parson did a great job establishing openings there and Ag Director Chris Chinn was a big part of that. Japan is an important partner to us and we’re watching this closely.”

Missouri Ag Director Chris Chinn previously told Brownfield Japan has an interest in Missouri-produced corn and soybean meal. But Japan is also a top market for U.S. pork and some beef products.

On social media, Trump says he also had a productive call with Mexico on Wednesday and other countries, like China, want to meet with the United States.