Secretary Naig Celebrates the Passing of the USMCA Trade Agreement

DES MOINES, Iowa (Jan. 16, 2020) – Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Senate’s vote to ratify the USMCA trade agreement.

“I want to thank President Trump for his commitment to negotiating better trade deals for America’s farmers,” said Secretary Naig. “This year, we’ve secured new agreements with Japan, China, Canada and Mexico — four of our largest trading partners — which gives producers greater market access for their products and a renewed sense of optimism heading into the 2020 growing season.”

  • Full implementation of USCMA could increase U.S. agricultural exports by $2.2 billion, according to the U.S. International Trade Commission.
  • Iowa exports to Canada in 2018, according to WISERTrade.
    • $198 million of ethanol
    • $137 million of animal feed
    • $108 million of pork
    • $7 million of beef
    • $86 million of corn
    • $44 million of soybeans
  • Iowa exports to Mexico in 2018, according to WISERTrade.
    • $15 million of ethanol
    • $229 million of animal feed
    • $112 million of pork
    • $1 million of beef
    • $546 million of corn
    • $224 million of soybeans

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About the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

Led by Secretary Mike Naig, the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship serves the rural and urban residents that call Iowa home. Through its 14 diverse bureaus, the Department ensures animal health, food safety and consumer protection. It also promotes conservation efforts to preserve our land and enhance water quality for the next generation. Learn more at iowaagriculture.gov.

Media Contact:
Don McDowell
Communications Director
515-281-3375
Don.McDowell@IowaAgriculture.gov