“Increased production and a consistent product make the U.S. a reliable supplier of corn in the world market,” Tolman said. “Beyond increasing domestic and international demand for corn, passing these FTAs also benefits our customers in the livestock and poultry industries. Developing new markets for our country’s agricultural products will help our sector lead the nation in economic growth and international competitiveness.”
The hearing’s first panel consisted of U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk. The second panel comprised representatives of the American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Pork Producers Council, the National Wheat Growers Association, the National Farmers Union and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, in addition to Tolman. Tolman’s testimony expressed support for all three pending FTAs and the benefits they would have for corn producers.
The U.S. is the largest corn producer and exporter in the world, and exports of corn and corn co-products are essential to producer income. During the 2009-10 marketing year, the U.S. exported 50.4 million tonnes of corn worldwide. Corn co-products such as distillers dried grains represent a growing export market for domestic producers.
“Our members want to maintain current export markets and significantly increase demand for corn through opportunities in value-added corn products,” Tolman said. “We look forward to working with Congress to ensure swift passage of these important FTAs.”
NCGA remains committed to the development and maintenance of fair and open global trade policies.
