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Tariffs heighten need for markets beyond international trade

An extension ag economist suggests farmers navigating trade uncertainty should explore additional market opportunities.

Chad Hart with Iowa State University says tariffs are causing volatility and an added layer to risk management.

“Trying to see how our markets do adjust to when these tariffs hit, and sort of do you have other avenues for growth beyond international trade.”

For soybean growers, he tells Brownfield growth in the renewable diesel sector is encouraging.

“So can we continue to build on growth sectors sort of within our domestic markets right now, because those will be more secure if you will over the next year because you’re not facing the possibility of tariffs impacting that market.”

Longer term, Hart says sustainable aviation fuel could become a strong domestic end user for both corn and soybeans.