corn grower Leader Urges Action Following U.S. Trade investigation into Brazil
A leading voice for American corn farmers expressed strong support for a U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) investigation into Brazil’s trade practices, citing unfair penalties impacting U.S. exports. Kenneth Hartman Jr., President of the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) adn an Illinois farmer, testified before a USTR panel, detailing concerns over Brazilian trade actions.Hartman stated that Brazil has implemented policies over the last decade specifically designed to diminish demand for U.S. corn and ethanol. He highlighted the imposition of tariffs on U.S. ethanol, beginning with a 20% tariff in 2017, which was briefly suspended before being reinstated at 16% and subsequently raised to 18% in early 2024.
“Brazil was previously the leading export market for U.S. ethanol,” Hartman explained, “but the reimposition of these tariffs caused a significant and rapid decline in sales.” He further noted the simultaneous increase in imports of Brazilian sugarcane ethanol into the United States.
The USTR investigation was initiated under Section 301 of the 1974 Trade Act, allowing for a review of potential unfair trade practices.Hartman urged the USTR to consider reciprocal trade measures if negotiations with Brazil fail to result in the removal of the ethanol tariffs.
The NCGA has actively advocated on this issue and hartman affirmed the organization’s commitment to working with the USTR to address the economic harm caused by Brazil’s policies and secure a fair trading surroundings for U.S. corn growers. He emphasized that the NCGA has compiled extensive evidence to support its claims and is prepared to collaborate with the management to find a resolution.
