
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and the American Soybean Association (ASA) have expressed strong opposition to a recent recommendation by the U.S. Department of Commerce to impose preliminary countervailing duty rates on imports of the herbicide 2,4-D.
The proposed duties stem from a petition filed earlier this year by domestic herbicide producer Corteva Agriscience, which called for antidumping and countervailing measures against certain foreign suppliers of 2,4-D. Farmers across the United States rely on this herbicide for effective weed management, and many argue that domestic production cannot meet the current demand.
"Access to this herbicide is critical for corn growers," said NCGA President and Minnesota farmer Harold Wolle. "Because there is only one domestic supplier manufacturing 2,4-D, growers in the U.S. must look to foreign suppliers to help meet our needs. We would welcome ideas from Corteva on how to ensure that this herbicide is available and affordable for American growers."
ASA President and North Dakota soybean farmer Josh Gackle echoed these concerns. "This decision to raise duties on imports is disappointing for soybean growers nationwide," he said. "We rely on imported generic 2,4-D in combination with other herbicides to manage weeds efficiently before planting. The increased costs could strain our operations during an already difficult time."
The proposed tariffs are expected to place substantial costs on herbicide imports, potentially impacting availability and affordability for farmers nationwide. Wolle emphasized the financial strain already facing growers: "This couldn’t come at a worse time. The price of corn has declined by more than 40% over the last two years, and the average cost of producing corn was higher than the average selling price in 2023. We are expecting that margin of loss to be even worse in 2024—even before taking this new trade case into account."
Gackle stressed that the process is far from over and pledged continued advocacy on behalf of soybean farmers. "This is just the beginning of a lengthy process. ASA remains committed to advocating for soybean farmers by engaging with Congress, Commerce, and the ITC. We will continue fighting against these duties and work toward a resolution that supports U.S. farmers and their bottom lines as the antidumping and countervailing investigations continue," he stated.
The Department of Commerce's announcement follows the International Trade Commission's (ITC) decision earlier this year to proceed with the investigation. Final duty rates are expected to be announced next year. The ITC, which has the authority to dismiss the case entirely, will conduct a full hearing and make its final determination in 2025.
Farmers and industry groups are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for a solution that ensures the availability and affordability of essential agricultural inputs like 2,4-D. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the agricultural sector and rural economies across the country.