USMCA Passes in Senate Graphic

With an overwhelming majority, USMCA passed through a Senate vote on Jan. 16, 2020.

The future of Nebraska’s corn industry is bright following the Senate’s passage of the much-anticipated trade agreement between the United States, Mexico and Canada. The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) and the Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) issued statements today regarding the approval of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

“Ever since President Trump announced his intent to withdraw from NAFTA, one of our top priorities has been a modernized agreement that continues to have a positive impact on Nebraska agriculture,” said Dan Nerud, president of the NeCGA and farmer from Dorchester. “We’re extremely appreciative of our farmer members who helped bring USMCA to the finish line. We’d also like to thank Sen. Deb Fischer and Sen. Ben Sasse for their unwavering support on this key piece of legislation.”

“The fact that USMCA received overwhelming bipartisan support from the House of Representatives last month and overwhelming bipartisan support from the Senate today just emphasizes the importance of free trade with Canada and Mexico,” said David Bruntz, chairman of the NCB and farmer from Friend. “Because of USMCA, Nebraska’s corn farmers and ethanol producers will continue to have access to our biggest and most dependable markets.”

According to the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, Nebraska’s total ag exports to Canada and Mexico equate to $1.46 billion, with corn exports totaling over $402 million, ethanol at $96 million and distillers grains at $27 million. Mexico leads the way as the single country that imports the most U.S. corn and distillers grains. Canada is the No. 2 customer for ethanol and distillers grains.

Nebraska Corn looks forward to the full implementation of this important trade legislation.

Related Articles

  • The Nebraska Corn Board Kicks off New Fiscal Year with New Program Focuses

    The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) began the new fiscal year on July 1 which brings new programs funded by the checkoff for the 2024-2025 year. With a strategic plan in place through 2027, the [...]

  • Corn Board to Meet

    The Nebraska Corn Board will hold its next meeting on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at Lindsay Corporation (18135 Burke St., Suite 100,) in Omaha, Neb. The meeting is open to the public, providing the opportunity [...]

  • Five college students to begin summer internships sponsored by the Nebraska Corn Board

    As the weather warms up and the school year winds down, five undergraduate college students will begin internship programs supported by the Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) and the Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA). Each [...]

  • Nebraska Celebrates Renewable Fuels Month This May

    Renewable Fuels Month highlights the importance of renewable biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel, especially for Nebraskans. The month of May marks the beginning of the summer driving season, making it an ideal time [...]