American farmers are facing one of their toughest years. After record corn and soybean harvests, they are struggling to sell. China, once the largest buyer of U.S. soybeans, has turned away due to a 34% tariff and a complete halt on purchases. Instead, China is buying from Brazil and Argentina, boosting those countries’ share in the global market.
The impact in the U.S. is painful. Prices have dropped, farmers are storing unsold crops, and many are watching their finances collapse. Senate Majority Leader John Thune admitted on NBC’s Meet the Press that South Dakota’s farmers are running out of options. Government aid is being discussed, but it does little to match the scale of the crisis.
Meanwhile, India is seen as a potential market but has shown no interest. The country has high tariffs on U.S. corn (45%) and soybeans (up to 60%). On top of that, India bans genetically modified foods, which make up most American soybean varieties.
Indian attorney and author Navroop Singh said on X that this is not the time for India, China, Russia, or Brazil to offer relief. According to him, holding firm will force Washington to soften its trade stance.
