Xi and Trump Talk Trade and Diesel Prices Skyrocket
From the Western Ag Network, I’m Bob Larson with your Agribusiness Update.
**Chinese President Xi Jinping met with President Trump in Washington last week after U.S. and Chinese officials agreed to extend their trade truce through Jan. 10.
According to The Associated Press, the extension maintains a pause on new tariffs and trade restrictions while giving both sides more time to negotiate.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says some Chinese commitments remain unmet, but China has been a strong buyer of U.S. soybeans this year.
**Record-high diesel prices are pressuring farmers heading into harvest, and the Trump administration is considering whether restricting diesel exports could provide relief.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says officials are examining whether a full or partial export ban is feasible.
But energy analysts warn the impact may not last.
They say limiting exports could cause refiners to cut production, potentially tightening supplies and pushing prices higher later.
**Farmers interested in agritourism will have a new source of financial assistance through a partnership between Airbnb and American Farmland Trust.
The groups are launching a grant program designed to help farmers prepare their properties for overnight guests or launch agritourism experiences.
With grants up to $10,000, eligible projects could include renovating farm properties for guests or developing activities such as apple picking, wine tasting, farm-to-table dinners, and agricultural workshops.
