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Smith says new farm bill could improve trade uncertainty

Nebraska Congressman Adrian Smith says a new farm bill may bring stability to ag producers impacted by trade disputes.

He tells Brownfield he’s not a strong supporter of tariffs and the next farm bill offers a better alternative than trade assistance payments if producers are affected by retaliatory measures from other countries.  “The farm bill has a safety net to it that can kick in as appropriate. I hear from act producers all the time that they’re anxious to produce for a market, not just a government payment.”

Smith says he hopes the Trump administration keeps trade assistance payments on the table if necessary. Earlier this week, the White House said some form of relief payments are being considered.

He says the best path forward is expanding U.S. markets abroad and is encouraged the Trump administration is working toward new trade agreements. “Friendly countries such as Australia – Australia has shut out American beef, US beef, yet we still take theirs. We need to have conversations that level the playing field. It is my sense that those conversations are beginning to take place.”

The White House says meetings have begun with several countries including Japan, the UK and representatives from the European Union.

Congressman Adrian Smith: