U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts has emphasized that expanding domestic consumption of American agricultural products could play a crucial role in improving the current state of the farm economy. Speaking to industry leaders in Nebraska, Ricketts highlighted ongoing efforts to broaden market access and increase value-added opportunities within the sector. n nOne strategy, he explained, involves using soybeans as feed for livestock before exporting meat and dairy products, thereby capturing greater economic returns. “By processing our corn and soybeans into higher-value goods before sending them overseas, we enhance our overall economic position,” he said. n nHe also pointed to biofuels as a promising avenue for stimulating internal demand. Specifically, Ricketts advocated for year-round availability of E-15 fuel, a blend containing 15 percent ethanol, which would benefit corn producers. n n”Allowing E-15 throughout the year would significantly support corn farmers,” he stated. “While an EPA waiver helps temporarily, we need permanent legislation to lock this in.” n nDuring a regular media briefing, Ricketts added that the Trump administration continues to prioritize the negotiation of new international trade agreements, aiming to expand export opportunities alongside domestic growth strategies. n— news from Brownfield Ag News
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Ricketts says building domestic demand could strengthen economic outlook
A U.S. Senator says increasing domestic use of U.S. commodities could help improve the current ag economy. n nPete Ricketts tells Brownfield industry leaders in Nebraska are working to diversify market opportunities. n n“One of the things we can do with our soybeans is feed them to our livestock sector first, and then sell those products overseas,” he says. “That’s all value-added agriculture, which means we are economically better off when we add value to our corn and soybeans before we sell them overseas.” n nHe says biofuels are another way to grow domestic demand. n n“We need to get E-15 all year round, which would really help out our corn farmers,” he says. “Getting the EPA to give us a waiver is great, but we need the legislation in place to make that permanent.” n nDuring his weekly call with reporters, Ricketts says the Trump administration says it remains committed to negotiating new trade deals.