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Ag Secretary could boost relations with Mexico

The president of the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) says he’s hopeful the confirmation of the next USDA Ag Secretary will improve strained trade relations with Mexico.

Tom Sleight tells Brownfield the Trump Administration has assured him enhanced dialogue with trading partners will begin once all cabinet positions are filled.

“I think we’re getting closer.  I think you’ll see some movement fairly soon on both Governor Perdue as Secretary of Agriculture and Robert Lighthizer as U.S. Trade Representative, which are the two most important to agriculture.”

Chairman Pat Roberts says the Senate Ag Committee will vote on Ag Secretary-nominee Sonny Perdue this week, but a full Senate vote has not been scheduled.

Sleight says the U.S. must continue to compete strongly as trade competitors attempt to secure a foothold in Mexico.

“We were down (in Mexico) the week before last (and) the Argentinian trade folks were in there making their pitch.  The door has been opened in that market.”

Sleight says the incoming Ag Secretary can help modernize the North American Free Trade Agreement, which has been very beneficial to U.S. grain producers.