Newhouse: Assistance Helps, But Farmers Want Trade Opportunities

On Thursday, Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue announced that President Trump has authorized the USDA to provide up to $16 billion in assistance to help farmers impacted by the trade war with China.  Perdue said the programs will assist agricultural producers while President Trump works to address long-standing market access barriers.

Much of the farming community expressed thanks for the assistance.  However, as the trade not aid slogan continues to resonate with American farmers.

“Nothing’s going to replace our markets, $16 billion in direct payments, and I think some of the dollars are being used to try to open new markets around the world," said Central Washington representative Dan Newhouse.  "You know, it’s all good stuff but we need to bring to a positive conclusion these trade negotiations.”

Newhouse said the Administration understands that farmers are hurting and the $16 billion is a way to try to soften some of the blow.  Newhouse noted President Trump understands that American farmers have been at the ‘tip of the spear’ when it comes to retaliatory tariffs.

“It’s costing people a lot and as we’re beginning to look at harvest crops that we export, cherries are right around the corner, a lot of other things that are critical for our agricultural industry, I’m hopeful that some of this aid will go where it can help the most.

"China hasn’t played by the rules for a long time and President Trump is standing up to them, sending the clear message that the United States will no longer tolerate their unfair trade practices, which include non-tariff trade barriers and the theft of intellectual property," Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue said Thursday.  "President Trump has great affection for America’s farmers and ranchers, and he knows they are bearing the brunt of these trade disputes. In fact, I’ve never known of a president that has been more concerned or interested in farmer wellbeing and long-term profitability than President Trump,” said Secretary Perdue. “The plan we are announcing today ensures farmers do not bear the brunt of unfair retaliatory tariffs imposed by China and other trading partners. Our team at USDA reflected on what worked well and gathered feedback on last year’s program to make this one even stronger and more effective for farmers. Our farmers work hard, are the most productive in the world, and we aim to match their enthusiasm and patriotism as we support them.”

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