SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois, aptly named “The Prairie State,” is well known for its expansive fields and prosperous agricultural production. Today, Illinois agricultural exports generate $8.2 billion annually and support over 68,500 jobs. The state ranks third nationally in the export of agricultural commodities, with the majority of trade dollars generated through trade with Canada and Mexico.
This year however, Illinois farmers face substantial uncertainty in the upcoming planting season due to both a historically wet spring and a volatile international trade market.
Market access to Canada and Mexico is especially important to the state of Illinois, Growers of corn, soybeans, feed grains, and grain products for further processing continue to operate in uncertain and unstable markets as USMCA awaits a Congressional vote.
Agricultural and community leaders from across the state of Illinois will assemble on Friday, June 21 at 8:00 AM at the Rock Island Holiday Inn for a roundtable discussion focused on USMCA. Participants will have the opportunity to communicate concerns and suggestions regarding the ongoing effects of market insecurity on IL commodity groups and the importance of a swift USMCA passage.
All media and members of the local agricultural community are welcome to attend and join the discussion. Contact Liz Frey (616-901-8710) with questions.
–Illinois Corn
Illinois Soybean Association
Illinois Farm Bureau
Rural & Agriculture Council of America