Kansas Corn on Tariffs on Mexico, Canada and the E.U.

June 1, 2018– New tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Mexico, Canada and the EU are creating much concern for Kansas Corn growers.  KCGA President Ken McCauley, White Cloud, commented on the actions that have spurred concerns over retaliatory actions against agricultural products.

“These countries, especially Mexico, represent existing markets that Kansas corn farmers can’t afford to lose. Kansas Corn has invested time and money into building markets, especially with Mexico,” McCauley said.

The Kansas Corn Commission targets checkoff dollars to develop export markets for corn and corn products like red meat, ethanol and DDGS through work with the US Grains Council, US Meat Export Federation and other partners. Last year, Kansas Corn participated in a trade mission to Mexico and hosted several Mexican trade teams in Kansas.

“Mexico has become the biggest export customer for U.S. corn. It is also a top market for red meat and DDGS and is a promising market for ethanol,” McCauley said. “Just this week, we visited with USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue during his visit to Kansas, and he emphasized the value of trade. We urge the administration to work through these issues and keep markets open for our products. Our corn farms are small businesses that are already weathering tough times. We could use some certainty as we wrap up planting and begin the growing season for our crop.”