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RFA feels great about Trump ethanol policies

The president and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association says he feels great about Trump Administration policies on ethanol.

Bob Dinneen tells Brownfield he believes the White House wants to empower the industry and see it grow.

“At our national (renewable fuels )conference in February the President sent a note in which he personally reiterated his support for ethanol generally and the Renewable Fuel Standard specifically.  He told all the conference participants that he has a regulatory agenda that fits with (the renewable fuels) industry.”

Dinneen says he’s also been encouraged by Trump’s approach to trade, citing the president’s involvement following threats from Brazil to impose tariffs on U.S. ethanol.

“It doesn’t make any sense.  It’s going to hurt Brazilian consumers.  It’s just a return to the protectionist policies of the past.  And in the past, the U.S. (ethanol) industry would be fighting that alone.  Not with this sheriff in town.  Having the government walk in with you sends a powerful signal.”

Brazil became the top export market for American ethanol after China imposed 30 percent tariffs earlier this year.

Brownfield interviewed Dinneen as part of Washington Watch activities hosted by the National Association of Farm Broadcasters earlier this week.