The USDA has not yet been able to determine how President Trump’s latest tariffs will affect farmers, with the full impact not expected until late summer or early fall. The tariffs, which include 10% on all imported goods and additional tariffs on Chinese, Mexican, and Canadian imports, could disrupt trade and raise costs for farmers. In 2018, a similar trade dispute led to significant losses for farmers, particularly in soybeans, with some losing 71% of their income. Experts worry this second round of tariffs could be even more damaging, especially for soybean farmers, who are still recovering from the last trade war.

Besides export disruptions, tariffs are also increasing the costs of essential agricultural supplies, such as machinery parts and potash, which comes from Canada. The uncertainty surrounding these tariffs could also affect the year-round supply of fresh fruits and vegetables, potentially causing long-term hardship for farmers.

While the USDA is setting up programs to support farmers if economic consequences arise, many in the farming community, like the American Soybean Association, are concerned that increased tariffs could threaten the economic stability of agriculture in the U.S.