Ag Secretary Rollins Highlights Trade and Biofuel Plans in Iowa

By Andi Anderson

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins made her first official visit to Iowa, addressing major topics including tariffs, agricultural trade, and ethanol production. Her visit came ahead of newly proposed tariffs and highlighted efforts to support American farmers.

Speaking at the Iowa Ag Leaders Dinner in Ankeny, Rollins criticized previous trade policies, saying the current agricultural trade deficit—projected at $49 billion—is “completely unacceptable.” She said the administration is working to balance trade deals, increase exports, and hold global trading partners accountable.

Rollins emphasized former President Trump’s commitment to farmers, stating, “He is the ultimate deal maker, and he is going to ensure that our farmers are being treated fairly by our trading partners.”

Although some economists worry that more tariffs could lead to trade wars, Rollins stressed that fair trade deals will boost exports of key crops like corn and soybeans.

These two crops represent nearly 25% of the U.S.’s $176 billion in agricultural exports. During Trump’s first term, retaliatory tariffs caused the U.S. to lose an estimated $27 billion in agricultural exports, which led to the USDA providing $23 billion in relief to farmers.

In addition to trade, Rollins announced $537 million in funding for the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program. This funding supports 543 biofuel infrastructure projects in 29 states, aiming to expand access to E15 and E85 fuel blends.

She said the funding is part of the administration’s mission to “unleash American energy.” Iowa leads the country in biofuel production, with 42 ethanol plants and 10 biodiesel plants.

Monte Shaw, Executive Director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, welcomed the funding, calling it “very good news.” He said, “E15 is the largest untapped domestic market for American agriculture,” benefiting both farmers and fuel consumers.

Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic