U.S. Farmers Say Tariffs on Canadian Goods Are Crippling Agriculture Sector
American farmers are raising alarm over the continued impact of U.S.-imposed tariffs on Canadian goods, saying the measures are taking a serious toll on the agricultural sector south of the border.
Although President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on dozens of countries Wednesday—excluding Canada and Mexico—earlier tariffs of up to 25 percent on select Canadian imports remain in effect. Farmers say those existing tariffs are already wreaking havoc on their livelihoods.
“Most farmers are pretty used to dealing with tough situations,” said Doug Sombke, president of the South Dakota Farmers Union. “But many were struck and shocked by this.”
Sombke warned that producers are getting hit from both sides. Market prices are falling, while the costs of essential inputs—like fertilizer and equipment—are rising sharply. He pointed out that 90 percent of the state’s potash, a vital fertilizer, comes from Canada and is now subject to a 10 percent tariff. Much of their farming equipment, also sourced from Canada, is becoming increasingly expensive.
“There’s already been a drop in market prices just from the latest tariff news,” he added. “This was just a horrible idea. Whoever thought tariffs were good for the country doesn’t understand civics or economics very well.”
Bob Kuylen, vice-president of the North Dakota Farmers Union, echoed the frustration. He highlighted the impact of 25 percent steel tariffs, which are driving up the cost of farm machinery—like no-till drills made in Canada that now carry an added quarter-million-dollar price tag.
“That’s a heck of a hit,” Kuylen said. “These tariffs could really damage the future of agriculture here.”
