Tariffs
Tariffs, also known as taxes on imported goods, are a tool used by President Donald Trump as part of his overall economic vision. As U.S. agriculture navigates tariffs and their implications on trade, commodity prices, input costs and more, ag economists and farmers remain divided on the effectiveness of tariffs and what the changes mean for the broader economy and livelihoods.
Additionally and specifically, Canadian potash imports into the U.S. will be subject to a reduced import tariff of 10%.
Mexico’s president said on Tuesday the country will respond to U.S. tariffs with a 25% tariff on U.S. goods, but she will hold off announcing the targeted products until Sunday.
In 2023, the U.S. imported nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizer products valued at more than $10 billion, and of that more than half came from Canada.
Trump said Monday that his planned 25% tariffs on all Mexican and Canadian exports to the U.S. “are going ahead on time, on schedule,” meaning the duties would take effect on March 4 at the conclusion of a one-month suspension.
What we need for the long-term are sensible and predictable policies that allow farmers and other business leaders who rely on international commerce to make plans for growth and prosperity in the 21st century.
The only thing harder than keeping up with the velocity of news from Washington D.C. is figuring out what it means for the future. On the latest episode of Unscripted, long-time ag economist Dan Basse provides insights into what we can expect.
“It’s unlikely that changes in tariffs will impact prices headed into the Super Bowl, however, we’ll see how it plays out in the coming weeks,” Dr. Michael Swanson says.
Trump recently signed three executive orders imposing tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China. This marks the first time a president has used powers granted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977.
Just hours before the tariffs were set to take effect, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced the news on X, and President Donald Trump later confirmed. Mexico is the top destination for U.S. ag exports. The announcement from Canada came later on Monday.
Following President Trump’s decision to impose 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, Canada announced its own 25% tariffs on $155 billion worth of U.S. imports. Mexico also announced its own retaliatory measures, but no specifics were unveiled as of Sunday morning.