South Dakota Leaders Push Indo-Pacific Trade, China De-Risking for Farmers
Updated
Updated · Dakota News Now · Aug 12
South Dakota Leaders Push Indo-Pacific Trade, China De-Risking for Farmers
3 articles · Updated · Dakota News Now · Aug 12
Summary
Sioux Falls agriculture and trade leaders met Wednesday to map export opportunities and legislative priorities for South Dakota farmers, with the farm bill and trade strategy at the center.
John Thune said the Indo-Pacific should remain a major growth market for U.S. agriculture, pointing to new market access and biofuels as key upside for South Dakota producers.
Dusty Johnson framed reducing reliance on China as de-risking rather than isolation, arguing the shift could deepen ties with allies and partners, especially in the global South.
Les Shaw of Shaw Ranch backed mandatory country-of-origin beef labeling in pending legislation, saying clearer labels could help consumers choose U.S. beef and shape future trade deals.
The discussion underscored how trade policy and farm legislation are increasingly intertwined for a state economy that depends heavily on agricultural exports.