ONTARIO GRAIN FARMER MEMBER RELATIONS 32 represents nearly half a million farmers in the United States who grow soybeans, and those farmers rely on two-way trade coming in and out of Mexico and Canada. Not only are those two markets vital for the export of whole soybeans, soy meal, and soy oil, but we also rely on them for fertilizer and other products needed to successfully produce our crops. For instance, around 87 per cent of the potash we use here in the U.S. is imported from Canada.” The American Soybean Association remains committed to advocating for the elimination of trade barriers. Another trade-related concern involves the current U.S. administration reviewing the possibility of withdrawing the U.S. contributions to the World Trade Organization (WTO). In a released statement, the American Soybean Association strongly advocated for continued U.S. membership in the World Trade Organization. Withdrawing from the WTO could isolate U.S. agriculture, eliminate protections in trade disputes and put American soybeans at a disadvantage in world markets. The association believes participation in the WTO is essential for rules-based trade and global competitiveness. Another challenge for the United States soybean producers is the controversial direction of the Make America Healthy Again Commission (MAHA). MAHA’s May report challenges the science behind critical crop protection products. It also calls into question the safety of seed oils and is a threat to both scientific integrity and food security. In reaction to this report, the American Soybean Association responded with a statement indicating, “The American Soybean Association strongly rebukes the May 22 Make America Healthy Again Commission report for being brazenly unscientific and damaging to consumer confidence in America’s safe, reliable food system. Should the administration act on the report—which was drafted entirely behind closed doors— it will harm U.S. farmers, increase food costs for consumers, and worsen health outcomes for all Americans. ASA calls on President Trump, who has long been a friend of farmers, to step in and correct the Commission’s deeply misguided report.” Moreover, several U.S. Senators have been strong critics of this Commission, condemning MAHA’s approach and calling for a science-based methodology. At this time, however, there remains hesitation among some Republicans to publicly pushback against the administration. With 50 per cent of domestic U.S. soybeans used for edible oils and much of the world depending on these seed oils as a source of nutrition, calling into question decades of science providing evidence of their safety is an attack on the soybean industry. In turbulent times such as these, commodity organizations such as Grain Farmers of Ontario and the American Soybean Association are more important than ever. Grain Farmers of Ontario actively monitors global situations and, through advocacy, helps to ensure the viability of Ontario farms. Farming is a very complex industry that can be challenging for lawmakers to fully appreciate. As farmers, it is increasingly important for us to inform politicians on the challenges we face. Whether it be the American Soybean Association or Grain Farmers of Ontario, these organizations are the voices of the farmers. I am grateful for the learning opportunities I received through this program and look forward to continued involvement in Grain Farmers of Ontario. I would encourage any young farmers interested in the American Soybean Association Young Leader Program to apply. • Robertson (back, right) with participants in the ASA-Corteva Young Leader Program. continued from page 31
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