DES MOINES – Gov. Kim Reynolds released the following statement on the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announcement of a $16 billion aid package for farmers struggling as a result of the ongoing trade war:
The “$16 billion aid package will help Iowa farmers recoup some of their losses; however, in the long term farmers need trade and not just aid. We have some of the most productive farmers in the world and they will always win when given unrestricted access to markets. I appreciate President Trump for his efforts to secure critical aid for Iowa farmers while working to resolve the ongoing trade dispute.”
This past week, the USDA announced three programs to assist farmers during ongoing trade negotiations: Market Facilitation Program, Food Purchase and Distribution Program, and the Agriculture Trade Promotion Program. Further details regarding eligibility and payment will be announced by the USDA at a later date.
Farmers have struggled income cases as China retaliates against U.S. sanctions with sanctions of their own, targeting agricultural products.