“These tariffs will put a target on American farmers’ backs. In fact, in testimony this morning, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said that “farmers get the short end of the stick” when we raise tariffs like these on other countries.

“Given that China is the second largest export market for American farmers and ranchers, the pain from retaliation could be significant. In fact, state-run Chinese media has already indicated that American soy exports could be targeted. That would mean that the nearly $14 billion in annual soy exports from American farmers could face an immediate tax. Other reports from China have noted that American pork and sorghum exports may be targeted.

“Nobody wins in a trade war, but it’s also true that some sectors of the economy lose more than others, and over the years, American agriculture has consistently paid the price for protectionism.

“We urge the Trump administration to consider the impact these escalating tariff actions will have on farm country. With farm incomes declining, the last thing our farmers and rural communities can afford is a tax on the export markets they rely on.”

Farmers for Free Trade is currently running television, radio, and online ads featuring American farmers who are concerned about trade policies emerging from Washington D.C. You can also visit FarmerforFreeTrade.com to view videos that everyday American farmers are recording to voice their concerns about trade policies that would harm exports.

As reported by Farmers for Free Trade