June 2025
Florida’s farmers drive our state’s prosperity, and in Washington, D.C., bold policies are paving the way for agricultural success. From securing strong trade deals to slashing taxes and reining in government overreach, here is a snapshot of recent developments putting American farmers first.
U.S.-U.K. Trade Deal: Winning Markets for American Farmers
On May 8, 2025, President Trump delivered a landmark U.S.-U.K. trade deal, unlocking $5 billion in export opportunities for U.S. agriculture, including $700 million for ethanol and $250 million for beef and other products. By dismantling non-tariff barriers, this agreement empowers Florida’s citrus, vegetable, and specialty crop producers to compete in British markets. A 10% U.S. tariff on U.K. imports safeguards American interests while promoting trade. This America First deal showcases the power of trade policies, and we’ll ensure Florida farmers benefit as implementation unfolds.
China Trade Pause: Standing Firm for Fair Trade
On May 14, 2025, the Trump administration secured a 90-day tariff reduction, cutting U.S. levies on Chinese imports from 145% to 30% and Chinese tariffs on U.S. goods from 125% to 10%. This temporary truce, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, reflects tough negotiations to address China’s unfair trade practices. For Florida’s soybean and citrus exporters, the pause eases market disruptions but underscores the need for a permanent, balanced deal. Florida Farm Bureau backs President Trump’s resolute stance to demand reciprocity, ensuring American farmers aren’t undercut by foreign competitors. We’re monitoring ongoing talks to protect agricultural interests.
One Big Beautiful Bill
In the House, conservatives are advancing a transformative Budget Reconciliation Bill to extend the 2017 Trump tax cuts and curb wasteful spending. Passed on April 10, 2025, by a 216-214 vote, the resolution delivers $4.5 trillion in tax relief over ten years, including a permanent 20% small business deduction, a $2,500 child tax credit, and a $4,000 standard deduction boost for seniors (2025–2028). To restore fiscal discipline, it cuts $2 trillion in mandatory spending, targeting programs like Medicaid ($880 billion) and SNAP ($230 billion) that have grown unsustainable. For Florida farmers, these tax cuts mean more capital to grow operations, though we’re vigilant about protecting rural communities from spending cuts. On May 18, the House Budget Committee advanced this bill with a 17-16 vote and will be heard in the House Rules Committee on Wednesday, May 21st, before it heads to the floor for a full House vote. Speaker Johnson hopes to pass this bill by Memorial Day, and the Senate hopes to have it on the President’s desk for signature by July 4.
Moving Forward
These policies embody principles of free markets, fiscal responsibility, and American strength. The U.S.-U.K. deal expands markets, the China truce demands fairness, and the reconciliation bill empowers farmers with tax relief while tackling bloated budgets. Florida Farm Bureau stands with our leaders in DC to ensure these policies deliver for agriculture.