USDA Announces Growing Trade Deficit as Imports of Fruits & Vegetables Continue to Rise

Sep 13, 2024

By Emma Sauls

USDA announced last week that agricultural imports are expected to reach a record $212 billion in FY2025. Fueled in part by growing imports of fruits and vegetables, USDA now forecasts an agricultural trade deficit of over $30 billion for the year. The widening trade gap demonstrates a growing reliance on other countries for our fresh produce.

In August, Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff and Representative Sanford Bishop introduced the Protecting our Produce Act, a bicameral bill would establish a five-year pilot program to provide support for certain specialty crop producers — blueberries, squash, bell pepper, cucumber, or asparagus — when a crop’s national average market price (effective price) falls below its five-year average price (reference price), if the difference is caused by imports.

“GFVGA will be in Washington the next two weeks to meet with policy makers and to communicate the need for trade policy that can help level the playing field for Georgia Growers. The growing trade deficit demonstrates the need for a program that supports domestic producers before it’s too late and we become reliant on other countries for our fresh fruits and vegetables” said Chris Butts, GFVGA Executive V.P.

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Video: Fendt Testimonial | Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 | Peter Watson Jones Ltd.

What happens when a farm buys its first Fendt? For Peter Watson Jones Ltd, the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 has exceeded expectations from day one. For Jack, Farm Manager at Peter Watson Jones Ltd in North Shropshire, UK, the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 wasn't just another tractor purchase. It was the farm's first experience with the Fendt brand.

Operating across a 1,200-acre arable farm alongside a 250,000-head broiler enterprise, the business has evolved significantly over the last decade, moving to a straight arable system with fewer staff and machines. Since arriving on the farm, the Fendt 726 Vario has established itself as the main drilling and cultivations tractor, earning its place through performance, versatility and efficiency. Whether it's handling large-scale cultivations or working with a new 4.5m strip-till drill, the tractor continues to impress.

Jack highlights its excellent manoeuvrability, operator comfort and ability to deliver strong pulling power at low engine speeds. The result? Outstanding fuel efficiency without compromising performance. Reliability has also been a key factor, with dependable backup from the team at TR Machinery helping to keep the tractor working when it matters most.

?? Watch as Jack shares why the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7, the farm's first Fendt, has made such a strong impression and become an integral part of their operation.