ICGA Calls for Resolution to Trade Conflict

President Trump announced his global tariff plan during his “Make American Wealthy Again” event on April 2. The plan includes adding a universal tariff of 10% on all U.S. trading partners, effective on midnight, April 5, and roughly 60 of the U.S.’s top trading partners will be subject to higher rates, effective on midnight, April 9. In response, Stu Swanson, Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) President, released the following statement:

“In 2024, nearly 5 billion bushels of corn and value-added corn products were exported out of the U.S. Reciprocal tariffs placed on U.S. corn products is of great concern to Iowa corn growers who are already faced with a troubling economic landscape due to rising input costs and declining corn prices.

“The announcement of today’s tariffs will impact farmers by limiting or diminishing our existing trade channels and relationships. ICGA encourages President Trump to work to open new markets for Iowa farmers. With over 95 percent of the global population living outside the U.S. access to export markets is crucial for farmers. Domestically there are opportunities to increase the blend rate of ethanol such as E15 for all drivers to access a homegrown, more affordable fuel. We look forward to the opportunity to work with Trump Administration to expand new markets to create demand for U.S. farmers.

For More Information:

Sydney Garrett, Public Relations Manager, sgarrett@iowacorn.org, 515-225-9242