Iowa farmers and other agriculture representatives told U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai last week that they’d like to see an increased focus on two key trade issues as the U.S. works to build its economy and expand global trade relationships.

Tai made her first trip to Iowa Aug. 18 and joined Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack and Iowa Rep. Cindy Axne for a roundtable trade discussion at the Sam and Julie Spellman farm near Woodward.

While Tai heard recommendations on a variety of topics, front and center were the cost of inputs and associated tariffs, as well as Mexico's lack of access for biotech ag products.

Mexico has denied several biotech corn traits and other commodities, making it difficult for U.S. and Iowa producers to export ...