Leaders from the Kansas Corn Growers Association (KCGA) and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) are concerned about a recommendation from the U.S. Department of Commerce to impose preliminary duties on imports of the herbicide 2,4-D. They argue that these tariffs would further increase already high input costs for farmers. KCGA President J.D. Hanna and other leaders say that the higher prices for 2,4-D, which has recently surged from $20 to $29 per gallon, are making it harder for farmers to manage costs.

The proposed duties follow a petition from Corteva Agriscience, a domestic herbicide producer, seeking protection from foreign competition. Farmers rely on imported 2,4-D to fill the gap left by domestic supply shortages. The decision could also affect availability and costs nationwide, adding strain to already tight margins. The process is ongoing, with final duty rates expected next year and a final determination from the International Trade Commission in 2025.