Iowa lawmakers, including U.S. Representative Zach Nunn and Senator Joni Ernst, along with Wisconsin Representative Derrick Van Orden, are calling on the Trump administration to take coordinated action to ensure soybeans are a top priority in ongoing trade negotiations with China. The congressional leaders sent a letter urging the administration to address the challenges faced by soybean farmers who have been priced out of global markets amid prolonged trade tensions.
The letter emphasized that the United States must restore soybean market access and remove retaliatory duties that have distorted international competition. China, one of the world’s largest soybean importers, has not purchased U.S. soybeans this year, instead sourcing supplies from Argentina—mirroring its shift to Brazil during previous trade disputes. The lawmakers stressed that resolving the current trade impasse is essential for restoring market stability and protecting long-term relationships with key buyers.
Iowa Soybean Association President Tom Adam noted that agriculture thrives when the U.S. leads in global trade, warning that extended tensions risk permanently weakening relationships and diminishing the country’s status as a preferred soybean supplier. Lawmakers also urged the administration to provide clear communication to farmers, who face full storage bins, depressed prices, and uncertainty intensified by the ongoing government shutdown.
In addition to trade priorities, the letter called for swift action on renewable fuel policies, including finalizing the 45Z tax credit guidelines and Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs). These measures are expected to support the growing biofuels sector and increase domestic demand for soybeans. Industry leaders said that while the Treasury Department has released preliminary guidance on biofuel incentives, clarity and finalization are needed for producers to fully benefit.
The National Oilseed Processors Association highlighted that over $6 billion has been invested to expand soybean processing capacity by more than 25 percent to serve the biofuels industry. Association President Devin Mogler said certainty in biofuel policy is essential for maintaining momentum following a record harvest. Lawmakers concluded their letter by urging the administration to deliver a clear, actionable strategy to help farmers make informed marketing and planting decisions in the months ahead.
