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2025 saw almost record volume and value for pork exports
2025 proved to be another strong year for U.S. pork exports, with a volume of 2.9 million metric tons. This is three percent shy of the 2024 record, but it was still the third highest on record. Value was three percent down from 2024’s record but the second highest overall at $8.4 billion. Andy Tauer, vice president of international market development at the National Pork Board, said the industry continues to see sustained demand for U.S. pork in the Western Hemisphere. The U.S. Meat Export...
Why animal movement matters in screwworm control
Last week, we focused on the on-farm threats posed by New World Screwworm and the small wounds that can serve as entry points for the fly. But the effort to keep the pest out of U.S. herds goes far beyond the pasture. There is an even bigger challenge tied to the...
Making plans to manage multiple crop threats
Every year, farmers have to deal with many different crop issues, whether it’s pests, diseases, or weeds. Some of these crop threats will even start to impact farmers all at the same time. Dave Hoy, agronomy division manager at LG Seeds, said managing multiple threats...
Midwest governors pushing for year-round E15
Several Midwest Governors collectively called on Congress to pass the Nationwide Consumer and Retailer Fuel Choice Act of 2025. It’s a bill that would allow the year-round, nationwide sale of E15. Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe said the bill has bipartisan support. The...
Market macroeconomics going into 2026
During a presentation at the recent 2025 NAFB National Convention in Kansas City, Global Commodity Analytics President Mike Zuzolo discussed some of the biggest macroeconomic factors affecting the markets going into 2026. Zuzolo says that oversupply of some key...
Naig highlights export potential and challenges in Indonesia
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says the second stop of the recent Iowa agricultural trade mission to Southeast Asia highlighted both the opportunities and the hurdles that remain in the Indonesian market. While Vietnam offered immediate expansion potential,...
AFBF study: farmers urgently need economic assistance
USDA’s most recent reports, including Commodity Costs and Returns, World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimates, and Farm Sector Income & Finances reports, all confirm what U.S. agriculture has known for years. U.S. farm income is under immense pressure. A new...
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Naig encourages Iowans to celebrate agriculture during America 250
As planning begins for America 250, the nationwide commemoration of the United States reaching 250 years, Iowa leaders are emphasizing that the milestone is not only about looking back. It is also about recognizing what has made the country successful, and what will...
ICA heading into 2026 with plenty of optimism
Cattle producers from across the state recently gathered in Altoona for the annual Iowa Cattle Industry Convention. This year’s gathering had one of the highest attendance numbers from both producers and industry-leading companies. Iowa Cattlemen’s Association CEO...
USDA finalizes stage two of Supplemental Disaster Relief Program
Eligible farmers and ranchers are now invited to apply for specific disaster relief. The American Relief Act, passed in late 2024, authorized the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program, and applications for farmers and ranchers are now open. Danny Munch, an economist...
Soybean marketplace remains quiet despite positive export news
Despite good news for the soybean complex in terms of export demand this week, the markets have not responded with bullish price movement. China has secured at least seven million tons of U.S. soybeans after multiple purchases during the past two weeks. That puts...
Ethanol production hits another record high
The Energy Information Administration said ethanol output jumped to a new record high in the seven days ending on December 12. U.S. production rose to an average of 1.131 million barrels a day, which the agency said is up from 1.105 million the previous week and...
