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U.S. Grains Council and U.S. Meat Export Federation pleased with USMCA signing

U.S. Grains Council CEO Tom Sleight says although there is still some work to be done, it’s back to business as usual now that the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement has been signed.

“The do no harm issue when it comes corn and feed grains and ethanol and sorghum and barley was accomplished- we did no harm,” he says. “I was just in Mexico right before Thanksgiving and there feeling was the same- we’re able to get back to business as usual.”

Audio: Tom Sleight, U.S. Grains Council 

He tells Brownfield tariffs continue to be top of mind as Canada and Mexico have said they want them removed before the USMCA is ratified.

“Yes tariffs needs to be addressed, but we’re told that it’s being addressed, they’re talking about it, and they’re having negotiations,” he says.

Joe Schuele with the U.S. Meat Export Federation says tariffs it’s encouraging the three leaders came together to sign the agreement Friday.

“Those exports to Mexico and Canada are very, important to the profitability of our red meat industry,” he says.

Audio: Joe Schuele, U.S. Meat Export Federation

He tells Brownfield resolving the tariff issue would create a more positive environment for the agreement.