The following statement may be attributed to Iowa Farm Bureau Federation President Craig Hill

“The pandemic has only served to intensify the negative impact farmers were feeling prior to COVID-19. We appreciate the opportunity to visit with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during a roundtable discussion about the essential role trade plays with Iowa agriculture.

"Leaders from across Iowa agriculture shared the importance of trade with China and were encouraged to hear Secretary Pompeo recognize the importance of the Phase One Trade Agreement and express confidence the agreement will be fulfilled.

"Trade is an essential component for Iowa’s agriculture economy as one out of every three acres of crop production is exported, and one out of every four pigs raised are sent to markets outside our borders. That growth must continue if farming in Iowa is to continue, a sentiment shared by Secretary Pompeo."