Missouri Department of Agriculture News Release

“Trade in agriculture has always been a critical component in driving demand for our products domestically and internationally. Today, we’ve learned initial details of a landmark agreement with China that promises record breaking agricultural purchases from the United States. The trade deal, as explained by agriculture analysts, will create a much-needed biotechnology approval timeline, ease trade barriers for many agriculture commodities and secure $80 billion in agricultural purchases over the next two years.

“I’m thankful for those who have represented American agriculture at the negotiation table so well, including Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer. Agriculture’s goal has always been free and fair trade among countries. Our farmers & ranchers continue to produce the safest and most wholesome farm products in the world and this deal ensures us a level playing field in the global marketplace. American agriculture’s number one priority moving past this phase of the China agreement is a full ratification of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, as well as other bilateral trade agreements.”

– Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn