AFBF supports the action taken by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to begin dispute settlement proceedings against China over agricultural subsidy levels. AFBF President Zippy Duvall pointed out in a statement that Farm Bureau, like USTR, is concerned that China exceeded its domestic support limits for corn, wheat and rice from 2012 to 2015.  

“The World Trade Organization’s Agreement on Agriculture applies to all members,” Duvall said. Further, he noted that each country must follow agreed upon levels of domestic support, as  violation of domestic support levels can lead to overproduction and price-depressing surpluses that affect farmers worldwide.  

“Trade deals only work if they’re followed,” Duvall concluded.