Missouri Corn Welcomes Changes To Trade Mitigation Plan

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.)—Missouri Corn Growers Association President Mark Scott, a farmer from Wentzville, released the following statement regarding today’s announcement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to allocate $14.5 billion for farmers negatively impacted by the ongoing trade disputes and tariffs with China.

“Many farmers in Missouri are being hit on all sides by unrelenting rains, flooding and depressed markets. Assuming farmers can get seed in the ground, today’s announcement could provide some much-needed relief.

“While we did not ask for this trade mitigation, we appreciate the Administration for recognizing the very real challenges corn farmers are facing as a result of these prolonged trade negotiations. At the start of this second round of payment discussions, Missouri Corn made it clear a penny per bushel was not a fair reflection of the damages sustained. Based on the information provided, this updated Market Facilitation Program incorporates a more equitable approach than the previous plan in 2018. A single rate payment on planted acres acknowledges the ripple effect these trade wars have on agriculture as a whole. However, basing the payments on 2019 planted acres does not help if you don’t get seed in the ground. For Missouri corn farmers, that is a major concern.

“We have said time and time again, our preference is to have strong global markets. Following the authorization announcement, our goal has been to ensure corn farmers receive equitable consideration in the allocations. Today’s plan is a step in the right direction. It is imperative USDA remain diligent in their efforts not to influence planting decisions moving forward.

“Missouri Corn is ready to continue working with the Administration to provide short and long-term solutions and ensure greater market stability.”