Groups tell House Ag Committee that USMCA is critical for U.S. Farmers

Farm and food industry leaders told members of the House Agriculture Committee that renewing the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement is critical to the future of American agriculture and rural communities. During a hearing on the future of USMCA, representatives from commodity groups, dairy organizations, and the meat industry highlighted the agreement’s importance for agricultural exports and market stability. The agreement is scheduled for a formal review beginning July 1. “USMCA has been the gold standard for agricultural trade agreements, providing the certainty farmers and ranchers need to plan, invest, and stay competitive,” said Minnesota soybean farmer Jamie Beyer of the American Soybean Association. Industry groups noted that Canada and Mexico remain two of the most important export markets for U.S. agriculture. Dairy Farmers of America said more than 40 percent of U.S. dairy exports were shipped to the two countries last year. A renewal would avoid uncertainty that could impact farm income and long-term investment decisions.