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October red meat exports show promising signs
U.S. pork exports continued to build momentum in October, led by a record performance in leading market Mexico, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). While beef exports remained lower year-over-year, USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom said shipments rebounded to some degree in October, posting the largest totals since June. October beef exports increased year-over-year to Japan, Taiwan, Canada, the ASEAN region and the Dominican Republic,...
Callahan is the new chief agricultural negotiator
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative welcomed Julie Callahan as its new Chief Agricultural Negotiator. The U.S. Grains and BioProducts Council applauded the news, saying, “She’s a seasoned professional with years of experience in sensitive trade negotiations...
USDA efforts to ensure pigs don’t fly this holiday season
USDA is working hard to ensure that pigs don’t fly this holiday season, by encouraging international travelers not to bring pork products back with them to the U.S. Fernando Lugo of the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service explains. USDA is working to...
Ragland says farmers should not face stress alone
After another year of financial stress and market uncertainty, many farmers are carrying more than just the weight of tight margins. They are also carrying the emotional load that comes with making hard decisions, managing risk, and wondering what the year ahead will...
Food safety tips for holiday leftovers
While the Christmas feast is one of the best parts of the holiday festivities every year, some people might argue that the leftovers the following days are even better. However, it’s important to practice proper food safety steps in storing holiday leftovers for...
‘Product of USA’ meat labeling rule takes effect Jan. 1
A new USDA labeling rule takes effect Jan. 1, tightening standards for when meat, poultry and egg products may be identified as a product of the United States. Under the regulation, finalized in March 2024, companies may use labels such as “Product of USA” or “Made in...
Demand remains strong despite President Trump’s tariffs
Economists continue to study the impact that President Donald Trump’s tariffs are having on international trade. But one ag economist says they have not put a dent in consumers' buying patterns. Dr. Darren Hudson, Director of the International Center for Agricultural...
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More Ag News
South American Weather and Crop Update (12-30-25)
As the crops in Brazil enter the critical yield-determining phase, timely rains are finally reentering the forecast. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the latest weather forecasts for South America. While the crops are virtually all planted in...
Pork is more than just the flavor of the holidays
Family, food, and flavor are coming together as a winning recipe this holiday season with quality U.S. pork products. By showcasing pork’s versatility, flavor, and cultural relevance, the National Pork Board’s campaign is opening the door to new traditions and fresh...
How to maximize crop nutrition
A consistent theme for row crop farmers in 2025 was dealing with tight margins. As farmers are earning lower dollar amounts for their commodities but fertilizer prices remain high, maximizing crop nutrition is important for all growers. Ross Bender of The Mosaic...
Rural Mainstreet Index climbed above growth neutral
For only the second time in 2025, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index climbed above a growth-neutral reading of 50.0. That’s according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in a rural ten-state region dependent on agriculture and energy. The December reading hit 50.1, its...
Rural families struggle with slower postal deliveries
Reliable mail service is not a luxury in rural America. It is a necessity for receiving checks, handling daily business, and getting critical medicine and supplies that many families cannot easily pick up in town. But delays are becoming more common, and the...
