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New report on effects of Chinese retaliation

 

A new report highlights the impact Chinese tariffs could have on agricultural commodities.

Executive director of Farmers for Free Trade Brian Kuehl tells Brownfield Chinese reaction to U.S tariffs on steel and aluminum is probably just the first wave of a trade war.  “The tariffs that have been put in place so far generate about $500 million in additional duties put on U.S. ag products.  It’s basically a tax increase of $500 million on U.S. farmers.”

He says states growing fruits, nuts and pork are impacted the most, but all producers will feel the effects.  “It’s not good to see our markets shrinking.”

The report says the top states hit by retaliation include California, Iowa, Washington and Missouri.

Chinese tariffs of 15 to 25 percent on more than 230 products includes: pork from Iowa, Missouri and Minnesota; apples from Iowa; wine from Illinois; Michigan cherries; and ginseng from Wisconsin and Ohio.

Kuehl says the non-profit is encouraging farmers to create videos through their website and speak out to lawmakers on why trade is important.

AUDIO: Interview with Brian Kuehl