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USMCA continuation important to farmers, others

Maintaining the USMCA trade deal with minor adjustments was the common message from farmers, processors, and government officials in Green Bay on Wednesday.  Brian Kuehl with Farmers for  Free Trade tells Brownfield improved access for U.S. dairy is needed, “But overall, it’s an amazing deal, and we want to keep it intact, so the administration is doing what they have to do. They’re trying to improve the deal where they can, but at the end of the day, we want to see this deal continue for another decade.”

Seymour, Wisconsin, farmer Zac Soltvedt says USMCA has been important for corn sales to Mexico and ethanol sales to Canada. “Wisconsin exports 1.5 billion dollars in ethanol just to Canada alone, which equates to 35% of our total exports. It sure helps our local markets around here.”

Farmers for Free Trade hosted a panel discussion at Bel Gioioso Cheese, which exports products north and south of the border, and their leaders are concerned about market access and the use of common food names in Mexico.

Audio: Brian Kuehl from Farmers for Free Trade discussing USMCA with Brownfield’s Larry Lee at a Green Bay panel discussion.

Audio: Grain farmer Zac Soltvedt from Seymour, Wisconsin discussing the USMCA trade agreement with Brownfield’s Larry Lee.