The Daily

What an Iowa Farmer Fears About the Trade War

399 snips
Apr 24, 2025
In this insightful discussion, April Hemmes, a dedicated soybean farmer from Iowa, shares her firsthand experiences navigating the U.S.-China trade war. She discusses the dire implications of soaring tariffs on her livelihood and the broader farming community. April emphasizes the deep connection between American farmers and the Chinese market, reflecting on the historical ties that are now threatened. Her passion shines through as she articulates fears of financial instability and her hopes for a return to stable trade relations.
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ANECDOTE

First China Trip Shows Farming Contrast

  • April Hemmes shares a vivid story about her first trip to China with Iowa farmers to study their agriculture.
  • She observed small, hand-done farms vastly different from large U.S. operations, highlighting China's farming limitations.
ANECDOTE

Chinese Official Drives Combine

  • April recounts a memorable visit from a top Chinese commerce official to her Iowa farm.
  • She gave him a ride in her auto-steer combine, impressing him deeply with the technology and scale.
INSIGHT

Trade Trust Grows With Relationships

  • Personal connections in trade matter deeply beyond just price.
  • April notes relationships with Chinese buyers influence their decisions, providing a face to the farmer and the story of how crops are grown.
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