USDA reassures farmers that Trump will resolve China trade war
Perdue said Trump would not tolerate China to “bully” US farmers and would not allow US agriculture to bear the brunt of China’s retaliatory tactics.
While China is opening up markets for European markets, such as France and Ireland, it seems it is not any closer to resolving its differences with the US.
The pork industry has been significantly hit, due to the increase in tariffs for US pork exports imposed by China after the National Pork Producers Council recently announced producers had lost US$2.2 billion.
US pig meat exporters had to pay additional retaliatory 25% duties on products sold to mainland China, responding to the US’ imposition of 25% and 10% duties on imported steels and aluminium.
Meanwhile, the beef sector has also voiced its concerns on what the future may hold for its industry following the China trade war.
However, Perdue revealed that he had been instructed by the President to craft a strategy to support farmers.
“There is no denying that the disruption in trade relations with China is unsettling to many in agriculture, but if the President succeeds in changing China’s behaviour, America’s farmers will reap the benefits,” said Perdue.
“The President is a tough negotiator, and I am confident that American agriculture will flourish because of trade relationships that are smarter, stronger and better than before. China might underestimate the strength and resolve of American farmers, but the President does not. And he will not allow our agricultural producers to suffer because of China’s continued bad actions.”
