Jim Wiesemeyer

Jim Wiesemeyer is well known to Pro Farmer Members for his long tenure as Washington Bureau Chief for Pro Farmer. Now with agricultural consulting firm Informa Economics, formerly Sparks Companies, Inc., he is still offering his expertise and insight on farm policy, trade policy and Washington politics as a consultant to Pro Farmer. His Inside Washington Today column on AgWeb.com is a must-read item to keep up with the latest in Washington developments.

Latest Stories
Farm-Recession.jpg
How Do You Know When Agriculture Is In A Recession?
Agriculture can sometimes act as a buffer during broader economic recessions, as demand for essential food items tends to remain relatively stable. However, when multiple indicators align in the industry, it can signal a recession.
September 12, 2024 10:40 AM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
China map
Industry
China’s Exports Surge Amid Weak Domestic Economy, Raising Global Concerns
China’s soybean imports reached a record high in August 2024, reflecting significant growth in the country’s demand for the oilseed, but meat imports declined.
September 11, 2024 02:43 PM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
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Ag Policy
In First Forecast for FY 2025, USDA Projects A Bulging Ag Trade Deficit to Top $42 Billion
Agricultural imports are expected to reach a record $212 billion, up $8 billion from FY 2024. This increase is largely due to rising imports of horticultural products, sugar and tropical products.
August 29, 2024 09:37 AM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
Farm workers plant Novavine drought-resistant grapevines in Woodland
Ag Policy
Judge Blocks Rule Allowing H-2A Workers to Unionize in 17 States
The decision was made by U.S. District Judge Lisa Godbey Wood, who found the rule unconstitutional because it conflicted with the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) by granting collective bargaining rights to farmworkers.
August 27, 2024 09:13 AM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
grocery-store-steaks
Ag Policy
Meat Industry Urges Administration to Stop Using Meat As a Scapegoat And Distraction For Root Cause of Inflation
Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to propose several economic measures aimed at addressing key voter concerns such as housing and grocery costs with a federal ban on price gouging.
August 16, 2024 03:09 PM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
farm
Industry
How Agriculture Could Be Impacted by Any U.S. Recession
Recessions often lead to decreased demand for certain agricultural products, particularly those considered discretionary, such as cotton, dairy, specialty meat products and vegetables. This can result in lower prices for these commodities, affecting farmers’ revenues.
August 13, 2024 12:44 PM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
Weather - storm clouds - rain clouds - Lindsey Pound
Industry
There Are New, Early Signs of Ag Sector Financial Pressure
A new Kansas City Fed report shows farm incomes continued to weaken, particularly in crop-heavy states like Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska, while cattle prices provided some support.
August 13, 2024 12:19 PM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
U.S. President Joe Biden travels to Minnesota
Ag Policy
Harris Taps Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz As VP Pick, Can He Now Help Boost the Rural Vote?
Walz’s selection is seen as a strategic move to appeal to rural voters and progressives, given his track record of progressive policy achievements and his Midwestern charm.
August 06, 2024 01:53 PM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
Woman rides a motorcycle as she passes containers at Hai Phong port
Ag Policy
U.S. Rejects Vietnam’s Bid for ‘Market Economy’ Status in Blow to Trade Ties
The classification would have boosted exports and reduced tariffs on goods from country that is rising supply chain alternative to China.
August 06, 2024 08:00 AM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
poster.jpg
Ag Policy
Black and Other Minority Farmers Receive $2 Billion from USDA
USDA has distributed $2.2 billion to 43,000 individuals who experienced discrimination in receiving USDA farm program services before January 2021. More than 23,000 individuals currently or previously involved in farming or ranching received between $10,000 and $500,000.
August 01, 2024 09:32 AM
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Jim Wiesemeyer
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