Jim Wiesemeyer

Jim Wiesemeyer is well known to Pro Farmer Members for his long tenure as Washington Bureau Chief for Pro Farmer. Now with agricultural consulting firm Informa Economics, formerly Sparks Companies, Inc., he is still offering his expertise and insight on farm policy, trade policy and Washington politics as a consultant to Pro Farmer. His Inside Washington Today column on AgWeb.com is a must-read item to keep up with the latest in Washington developments.

Latest Stories
Trade Tariffs
Ag Policy
Mexico and Canada Take Additional Actions to Ward Off U.S. Tariffs
While Canada and Mexico have taken measures to address U.S. concerns, China’s response remains muted, potentially setting the stage for further trade tensions.
February 28, 2025 02:18 PM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
NY: High Cost of Eggs Due to Supply Shortage from Bird Flu Continues
Ag Policy
Trump Administration Announces $1 Billion to Combat Avian Flu and Soaring Egg Prices
The plan, announced by USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, dedicates up to $500 million to help poultry producers implement biosecurity measures and up to $400 million in financial relief for farmers whose flocks are affected by avian flu.
February 26, 2025 09:28 AM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, President of Mexico
Ag Policy
Mexico’s Sheinbaum Pushes for USMCA Deal as Tariff Deadline Nears
Trump said Monday that his planned 25% tariffs on all Mexican and Canadian exports to the U.S. “are going ahead on time, on schedule,” meaning the duties would take effect on March 4 at the conclusion of a one-month suspension.
February 25, 2025 01:02 PM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
NY: Egg Prices Remain High Due To Bird Flu Outbreak/avian flu
Industry
As the Trump Administration Shifts Strategy on Avian Flu, it’s a Complicated Issue in Need of a Long-Term Solution
USDA is working to get more eggs into the supply chain in the short-term, but U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins says a team is focused on coming up with a long-term strategy to combat avian flu.
February 25, 2025 08:36 AM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
FILE PHOTO: The U.S. Department of Agriculture is seen in Washington
Ag Policy
USDA Releases Approximately $20 Million of Paused Inflation Reduction Act Funding That Had Been Under Review
Following White House directives, USDA is honoring existing contracts with farmers, releasing approximately $20 million for the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP), the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), and the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP).
February 20, 2025 08:36 PM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
Chicken
Industry
Trump Administration Shifts Strategy on Avian Flu
Spearheaded by National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett and USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, the plan prioritizes enhanced biosecurity measures and medication to control the spread of the virus and moves away from mass culling of infected flocks.
February 16, 2025 06:38 PM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
U.S. President Donald Trump signs executive orders for reciprocal tariffs in Washington
Ag Policy
Trump Moves to Impose Reciprocal Tariffs, And It Could Reshape U.S. Trade Policy
These customized levies, expected to be finalized by April, are designed to rebalance trade relationships and target unfair practices, including subsidies, regulations, and exchange rate manipulation.
February 13, 2025 02:42 PM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
DC: Nomination Hearing for Brooke Rollins to be Secretary of Agriculture
Ag Policy
Senate Overwhelmingly Confirms Brooke Rollins as 33rd Secretary of Agriculture
Rollins’ confirmation was expected, as the Senate maintains its quick pace of confirming President Trump’s key cabinet positions.
February 13, 2025 12:10 PM
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Tyne Morgan
poster.jpg
Ag Policy
Trump Imposes Sweeping Steel and Aluminum Tariffs, Sparking Trade War Risks
The measures, effective March 12, eliminate country-specific exemptions and extend to downstream steel and aluminum products, affecting key suppliers such as Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and South Korea.
February 11, 2025 09:57 AM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
U.S. Net Farm Income & Net Cast Income.jpg
Industry
Government Payments Drive U.S. Farm Income Surge in 2025
A staggering 345% increase in government payments — from $9.3 billion in 2024 to $42.4 billion in 2025 — is the key factor behind the income boost.
February 06, 2025 04:04 PM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
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