Fertilizer Fix and Farm Support Programs
From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson with your Agribusiness Update.
**Reuters reports that the Trump administration is seeking other sources of fertilizer amid the ongoing Iran war's shipping constraints.
White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett told CNBC that they’ve established licenses for Venezuela to produce more fertilizer, and had discussions with Morocco, calling it an insurance policy against disruption' for U.S. farmers.
Hassett added, that’s not saying we can eliminate what disruption there is so far, but we can minimize it.
www.agrimarketing.com/s/156541
**Federal farm support programs are playing an increasingly central role as American producers navigate a period of economic uncertainty, high costs and weak commodity prices.
USDA administered programs have provided a financial backstop for many farmers facing tight margins.
Industry groups say current conditions have made federal assistance essential for maintaining operations.
Policymakers, however, are debating whether existing programs provide sufficient coverage, particularly as Congress works to finalize a new farm bill.
**A bipartisan group of Senators have introduced legislation aimed at increasing transparency in fertilizer markets and potentially lowering costs for farmers.
Senators Tammy Baldwin, Chuck Grassley, and Joni Ernst said the proposal would require the USDA to study competition, pricing trends and supply factors.
The USDA would be directed to publish a public report within a year examining things like market concentration, import reliance and trade policies.
