Congresswoman Cheri Bustos, member of the House Agriculture Committee, issued the following statement, following China’s announcement to impose tariffs on U. S. imports, in retaliation to President Trump’s plan to place tariffs on Chinese goods.
“President Trump’s actions are hurting hardworking families across the Heartland. Now that he’s started a trade war, Illinois’ pork, soybean, corn, and other agricultural producers are paying the price. As I have said many times, I support fighting for fair trade and standing up for American manufacturing, but I expect this Administration to fight just as hard to protect and open markets for our Illinois farmers. Today, farmers across the heartland are now feeling the consequences of an impulsive and reckless President.”
Illinois is the Nation’s largest soybean producer, growing 611.9 million bushels annually, of which 25% is exported to China. Illinois is also a top producer in pork and ethanol, which face steep tariffs. Illinois pork production contributes $1.8 billion to the State economy, and China accounted for one-third of pork variety meat exports last year.