US Agriculture Strengthens Export Reach

Oct 31, 2025
By Farms.com

RFA Supports White House Initiatives Promoting Global Ethanol Trade

The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) has expressed its gratitude to the Trump administration for its active trade policies aimed at boosting U.S. agricultural and ethanol exports. The association believes these actions demonstrate a strong national commitment to advancing American renewable energy and agricultural competitiveness.

“President Trump’s trade actions in Asia this past week are evidence of his clear commitment to promoting American agriculture and renewable fuels around the world,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “We thank him and his administration for their work to expand markets for U.S. agriculture, and to bolster opportunities for rural America to continue its leadership role in feeding and fueling the world.”

The RFA highlighted that ongoing trade negotiations have created new market openings and stronger international relationships. Such agreements contribute to the long-term sustainability and growth of the renewable fuels sector while improving global access to clean energy.

USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins posted, “Every day, we’re getting closer to Japan fulfilling its commitment to buy $8 billion in U.S. corn, soybeans, rice, ethanol, and other agricultural goods.

This announcement capitalizes on our earlier agreements with Japan, opens new markets, and honors the hard work of our farmers, ensuring prosperity for rural communities.”

According to the RFA, these partnerships will help farmers and ethanol producers thrive while strengthening America’s position as a global leader in renewable fuels and agricultural exports.

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.