America’s Farmers Need Immediate Economic Assistance 

Farmers and ranchers across the country are under intense financial pressure. USDA’s latest reports confirm what many families are living every day: input costs are up, crop prices are down, and margins have been at or below breakeven for several years. Working capital is eroding, lenders are tightening credit, and Chapter 12 farm bankruptcies are rising. A recent survey of agricultural lenders found that profits will remain elusive well into 2026.

The numbers tell the story:

• Farmers planted nearly 100 million acres of corn this spring. With costs around $900 per acre, that’s a $90-billion investment before the crop was even sold.
• Even with a projected record yield, farmers face losses of more than $150 per acre — totaling over $15 billion nationwide.
• Across major crops, national returns were negative for the last three years, totaling more than $50 billion in combined losses.
• Specialty crop farmers face even higher labor and regulatory costs, making margins even tighter.

Trade losses are deepening the crisis:

Farmers have also experienced multi-billion-dollar export declines, especially in major markets like China. While recent trade frameworks offer promise, export volumes haven’t increased and cash prices remain at or below early 2025 levels.

Why bridge support is urgently needed:

Congress has taken steps through the American Relief Act of 2025 and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, but the major farm bill enhancements won’t reach producers until 2026 and 2027. Farmers cannot wait that long. Many are finalizing 2026 operating loans now — and lenders won’t count federal support until it’s guaranteed.

The administration has announced a $12 billion trade aid package, but those funds have not yet been deployed and will cover only a portion of the losses farmers have already absorbed.

AFBF’s message is clear:

America’s farm economy is in crisis. Farmers need bridge economic assistance to stabilize their operations, support rural communities and maintain affordable food for American families.

AFBF is urging Congress and the administration to immediately:

• Provide bridge payments to offset multiyear losses
• Deliver trade-related economic assistance
• Support policies that strengthen markets, expand trade and boost demand for American products

Urge President Trump and Congress to act before the end of 2025 to provide immediate relief and long-term stability for America’s farmers and ranchers.

Thank you for standing up for American agriculture.