North Carolina Soybean Farmers Feel the Pinch of Tariffs

Strategic Insights -

North Carolina soybean farmers, who sell a significant portion of their crop to China, are struggling to stay afloat due to the ongoing trade war. Farmers are feeling the bite of tariffs, which have driven up costs and put a squeeze on their budgets. Michael Whatley, a supporter of the trade war, has refused to stand up for farmers, instead calling the tariffs "record setting in terms of effectiveness."

The majority of American soybeans are sold to China, which accounts for over 25% of U.S. soybean exports every year. This year, however, with the tariff standoff, Chinese buyers have been absent, leaving farmers like David Ivey of the N.C. Soybean Producers Association to bear the brunt of the losses.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ongoing trade war between the U.S. and China has led to a significant decline in soybean prices, affecting the bottom line of North Carolina soybean farmers.
  • China is the largest buyer of American soybeans, accounting for over 25% of U.S. soybean exports every year.
  • The absence of Chinese buyers has resulted in a significant loss for farmers like David Ivey, who is harvesting around 1,800 acres of soybeans this season.
  • Michael Whatley, a supporter of the trade war, has refused to stand up for farmers, instead emphasizing the "effectiveness" of the tariffs.
  • The tariff war is expected to continue for the next two to three weeks, during which time farmers will struggle to market their crop and make a profit.
  • The N.C. Soybean Producers Association is concerned about the long-term impact of the trade war on the industry and the economy.

Statistics:

  • Over 25% of U.S. soybeans are exported to China every year. (Source: N.C. Soybean Producers Association)
  • The price of soybeans has declined significantly due to the trade war. (Source: Spectrum News)
  • David Ivey is harvesting around 1,800 acres of soybeans this season. (Source: Spectrum News)
  • The trade war is expected to continue for the next two to three weeks. (Source: News Article)

Sources:

  • Spectrum News: N.C. soybean farmers who sell to China feel tariffs' bite (October 17, 2025)
  • N.C. Soybean Producers Association (no specific date)
  • News Article (no specific date)