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The Indicator from Planet Money
How USAID cuts hurt American farmers
Feb 19, 2025
Discover how recent cuts to U.S. foreign aid impact American farmers and global food relief. This discussion reveals the deep connections between USAID and U.S. agriculture, highlighting the stakes for crops like sorghum. Learn about the historical significance of USAID food assistance and its role in national security. Delve into the political advocacy efforts aimed at preserving this vital support and the implications of a recent court ruling on funding. The interplay between government purchases and agricultural research takes center stage.
08:13
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Quick takeaways
- USAID's food aid programs provide critical support to American farmers, with $2 billion in annual purchases helping sustain key agricultural industries.
- The potential transfer of the Food for Peace program to the USDA raises concerns about maintaining effective foreign aid logistics and farmer relationships.
Deep dives
Impact of USAID on American Agriculture
USAID plays a significant role in supporting American agriculture through foreign aid programs. The federal government purchases approximately $2 billion worth of food aid from American farmers annually, which, despite being less than one percent of their total income, is crucial for certain industries. For example, agricultural co-ops in Kansas heavily rely on government programs like Food for Peace, which has existed since the post-World War II era to distribute surplus American crops. This relationship not only aids struggling economies abroad but also cultivates long-term customers, as seen with Japan and South Korea, who transitioned from aid recipients to significant buyers of American agricultural products.
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highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode