The financial situation of US farmers is worsening against the backdrop of Washington's policies

Agricultural producers in the US report severe financial difficulties. According to North Carolina farmer Matt Bell, over the past year, fertilizer, fuel, chemicals, seed, and spare parts have risen significantly in price. Amid the surge in diesel prices, which doubled over the year, the national average cost per gallon reached a record $6.45 (a 74% increase year-over-year according to the American Automobile Association). Farmers attribute the rise in fuel costs to the military operations against Iran launched in February.

Theresa Sisung of the Michigan Farm Bureau notes a slight increase in bankruptcies in the agricultural sector against the backdrop of negative margins in recent years. Weather factors are also complicating the situation: for example, Michigan producer Russell Ketchum reported spring frosts and damage to crops. In North Dakota, farmer Chris McDonald indicated that current diesel prices are capable of completely stripping farms of profit.

Additional pressure on the agro-industrial complex is exerted by the trade conflict with Canada, Montana's main trading partner with cross-border sales volumes of $1 billion. The retaliatory tariffs introduced by Washington and Ottawa have led to higher machinery costs. Thus, Montana wheat farmer Steve Scheffels expressed concern that due to tariff policy he will not be able to afford the purchase of new equipment and grain bins from Canada.