A new poll suggests U.S. farmers are growing increasingly skeptical of the long-term benefits of the Trump-era trade tariffs, particularly as ongoing tensions with China continue to affect agricultural markets and profitability.
The poll, conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), found that only 14% of surveyed farmers believe the tariffs helped their bottom line, while over 60% said the tariffs ultimately hurt their operation or made no impact at all.
During the Trump administration, tariffs were imposed on billions of dollars in Chinese goods, triggering retaliatory tariffs on U.S. agricultural exports—including pork. While many producers initially supported the hardline stance in hopes of rebalancing trade, the prolonged dispute caused major disruptions in key markets like China, with ripple effects still being felt today.
“Farmers were promised long-term gains from short-term pain,” said EWG President Ken Cook. “But after years of instability, they’re telling us the pain never really paid off.”
The poll also found that many producers still support a tough stance on trade but are frustrated with the lack of consistent policy and long-term strategy. Additionally, many worry that political volatility could put more pressure on export-dependent sectors like pork.
Why It Matters for Pork Producers
The pork industry was hit especially hard during the trade wars, losing valuable access to Chinese markets and facing price fluctuations as export opportunities dried up. While temporary aid programs helped cushion the blow, many in the industry are now questioning whether the tariffs delivered any meaningful structural benefit.
As the 2024 Farm Bill discussions continue and trade once again becomes a hot-button election issue, pork producers are watching closely.
“Global market access is critical for U.S. pork,” said one producer. “We need stability, not more uncertainty.”
