For Immediate Release
Contact: Caitlin Eannello, 240-423-4345
Washington, D.C. (May 23, 2019) – Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced that the White House has authorized the Agency to provide up to $16 billion dollars in assistance to farmers who are being impacted by the U.S. trade war with China and other trade disruptions. NAWG President and Lavon, TX farmer Ben Scholz attended today’s ceremony at the White House which focused on this announcement and made the following statement in response:
“NAWG is grateful for the President’s understanding of the stress and damages China’s retaliatory tariffs have had on growers. Further, we look forward to working with the Administration to quickly finalize other trade agreements that open up new markets for wheat farmers.
“While we appreciate the trade mitigation program, it doesn’t make farmers whole. The U.S. exports 50% of its wheat which means we need a long-term solution. This includes getting the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) across the finish line, completing negotiations with China and supporting our WTO case, and closing a trade deal with Japan.
“Lastly, NAWG will continue to work with the Administration and USDA as the Agency crafts a relief strategy to ensure that the program works best for wheat farmers. We are pleased to hear that the USDA will take a broader look that the tariffs have had on all trade deals and markets when considering a longer-term relief package.
About NAWG
NAWG is
the primary policy representative in Washington D.C. for wheat growers, working
to ensure a better future for America’s growers, the industry and the general
public. NAWG works with a team of 21 state
wheat grower organizations to benefit the wheat industry at the national
levels. From their offices in the Wheat Growers Building on Capitol Hill,
NAWG’s staff members are in constant contact with state association
representatives, NAWG grower leaders, Members of Congress, Congressional staff
members, Administration officials and the public.
Source: NAWG