(WASHINGTON D.C.) — On Thursday, President Donald Trump announced a new trade deal with the U.K. that reportedly features key highlights for agriculture, including beef, ethanol and more.
After the news, multiple ag groups and leaders have shared their reaction to the trade deal framework. U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) applauds President Trump’s trade deal with the United Kingdom that will expand market access for American agriculture products. “President Trump is delivering on his promise to negotiate better trade deals and level the playing field for American producers to compete globally,” according to Senator Boozman. “Thanks to the president’s leadership, we have a framework for robust trade with one of our most important allies. The United Kingdom is an important potential market for increased exports of key Arkansas products like rice, and early reports of this deal demonstrate serious wins for our nation’s beef and ethanol producers. Increasing agriculture exports is critical to the long-term success of farm families and our national food security, and as the final details of this trade deal come together, I take note that the administration is making this a priority.”
The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) congratulated the U.S. and the United Kingdom on releasing a trade agreement that aims to enhance trade relationships and open new market opportunities for both countries. NASDA CEO Ted McKinney said “This agreement marks a significant step forward for U.S. farmers and ranchers, and U.K. agriculture and consumers as well. We applaud the leadership of both governments in forging a partnership that opens new markets in both countries.”
National Council of Farmer Cooperatives President Chuck Conner welcomed the announcement and said in part that “as discussions move forward during the 90-day consultation period, it is essential that this and any future trade agreements with other countries secure meaningful new market access to help offset losses in other export markets. We stand ready to work with the administration to ensure that the final agreement delivers tangible results for U.S. agriculture.”
The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) issued a statement after the announcement of a trade framework between the United States and the United Kingdom saying in part that they “are encouraged to see these nations take steps to strengthen economic ties and expand market access for agricultural products. As details of the agreement emerge, we urge negotiators to prioritize addressing non-tariff barriers that continue to limit the movement of fresh, perishable goods. Sanitary and phytosanitary measures, regulatory alignment, and border efficiencies remain critical issues for the fresh produce sector – impacting growers, exporters, and consumers.”
Michael Dykes, D.V.M., the president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association, issued a statement saying “On behalf of America’s dairy processors and producers, IDFA applauds President Trump’s announcement today that the United States and the United Kingdom have reached the terms for a significant trade deal between our two markets that promises to expand access for U.S. agricultural goods, reduce tariffs, and remove barriers to trade. Some estimates value the deal for U.S. agriculture at up to $5 billion in new market access opportunities. IDFA has been advocating for U.S. dairy to be part of those opportunities as we look to improve our bilateral cooperation and build upon the $19.5 million in dairy exports that the United States sent to the United Kingdom last year.”
Dykes continued saying, “For too long, the UK has limited America’s food and agricultural exports to the world’s sixth largest economy and now President Trump’s deal promises to level the playing field. IDFA looks forward to studying the details of this agreement as they emerge, especially specifics on relief and new market access opportunities for U.S. dairy products. The United States offers the world’s most wholesome, high-quality and affordable dairy products and IDFA is excited to work with our member companies to bring these delicious products to more consumers in the United Kingdom.”
