Illinois corn growers respond to tariffs on largest trading partners

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (WAND) - The IL Corn Growers Association is reacting after President Trump levied a 25 percent tariff on products from Canada and Mexico this weekend, as well as a 10 percent tariff on China.

IL Corn Growers Association President and Waterloo, IL farmer Garrett Hawkins said each of these countries is an important market for U.S. corn farmers, especially Canada and Mexico who are the largest market for ethanol and corn.

Hawkins issued the following statement:

"The farm economy is in a really tough spot right now with low commodity prices and high input costs. Export demand for corn products has been about the only positive in the market recently. Mexico, Canada and China are major buyers of our ag products, and any retaliation from these countries on our exports will likely target farmers. I know that President Trump supports farmers and the rural economies they're a part of, so we'll look for a quick resolution that protects our relationships and benefits both farmers and our end customers."

David Brown, a farmer in Macon County, said he is keeping an eye on the markets. He is also waiting to see if tariffs against Canada drive up the cost of his farm operation.

“One of the things we get out of Canada is potash,” Brown told WAND News. “That is a great fertilizer for corn. But we have all of our fertilizer put on already. At least most of us do in agriculture.”