FRESNO – Some lawmakers have expressed concern about the effect of new tariffs on agriculture, saying the president risks angering farmers, but here in the Central Valley, at least one grower is optimistic.
America’s ag industry could find itself suffering from low crop prices caused in part by the trade war with china, Wayne Western grows wine grapes in western Fresno County, he says there’s still time for the Trump administration to work it out.
“Right now I don’t think it’s a big deal, but by the time we get to harvest it would be nice to have it,” Western said.
Western says Midwest crops such as soybeans will be affected the most, but the lower prices could affect Valley crops like nuts.
“I’m glad it’s getting done and I’m one of those guys who’s willing to sit back and let the process go forward and hopefully we come out better than we have in a long time at the other end,” Western said.
according to the United States Department of Agriculture, China bought $9.2 billion in U.S. agricultural exports in 2018.
