Farm Bridge Assistance Update and U.S. Ag Supplies Down Under
From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson with your Agribusiness Update.
**The Farmer Bridge Assistance Program is delivering billions in aid to row crop producers as farmers grapple with a worsening agricultural economy.
Nearly $9.6 billion has been distributed, with corn and soybean growers receiving the largest share.
Corn accounts for about 42% of total disbursements, at $3.45 billion, followed by soybeans at $2.27 billion.
Wheat, cotton, and rice round out the top five, while other crops received hundreds of millions collectively.
**The United States continues to be the third-largest supplier of agricultural products to Australia.
In 2025, the U.S. had a 9% market share of Australia’s ag imports, totaling $1.7 billion.
Australia ranked as the 18th-largest U.S. agricultural export market.
Consumer preferences have recently shifted toward health and convenience.
Products with the strongest growth potential in Australian include dairy, pork, beef, distilled spirits, confectionery products, bakery goods, and pet food.
**The president of the National Corn Growers Association is criticizing several major energy companies for opposing legislation that would allow year-round sales of E15 fuel, gas blended with 15% ethanol.
NCGA President Jed Bower argues the delay keeps fuel prices higher, noting, “E15 saves consumers money at the pump.”
The proposal, supported by of most of the petroleum industry, would update parts of the Renewable Fuel Standard, including small refinery exemptions.
