Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) joined a bipartisan group of senators on Apr. 17 urging U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to involve farmers and ranchers in the upcoming review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
The senators said that the six-year joint review process is important for maintaining stability and opportunity for America’s agricultural sector, which relies heavily on exports to Canada and Mexico.
In a letter, Husted and his colleagues wrote, “Since its adoption, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) has generated numerous benefits for the U.S. food and agriculture sector. We recognize the value of the Agreement’s six-year joint review process to ensure proper oversight, implementation, and enforcement, and we urge you to work closely with Congress and producers to ensure that this process strengthens the Agreement and reinforces certainty for U.S. agriculture.” The senators also stated their support for “efforts to fully enforce the existing terms of the agreement, curb unfair practices, and address outstanding trade barriers that disadvantage American agriculture.”
The letter highlighted that “the United States is currently the world’s largest agricultural exporter,” with $176 billion in exports in 2024. Since USMCA took effect, exports have increased significantly—especially to Canada and Mexico—making them top markets for many states.
Scott Metzger, President of the American Soybean Association, said: “The USMCA has been a true success story for U.S. soybean farmers, increasing market access in both Canada and Mexico while ensuring critical cross-border trade remains unhindered.” Jed Bower, President of National Corn Growers Association from Ohio added: “Canada and Mexico are two of largest markets for American corn growers…we are deeply appreciative of these senators for taking initiative…highlighting importance of this agreement.”
Husted serves on Senate committees focusing on health, education, labor and pensions; small business; environment; public works; aging; according to his official website. He previously served as Speaker of Ohio House of Representatives where he advanced tax reductions as well as educational choice scholarships according to his official website. Before joining Senate he was Ohio secretary of state then lieutenant governor according to his official website.
As preparations begin for joint review process later this year under USMCA rules—signed by dozens more senators—the lawmakers called for continued engagement with Congress as well as rural communities: “We look forward to working with you to ensure that joint review process reinforces rather than undermines stability…that USMCA delivers…” they concluded.
