ASTA Response to Tariffs
- On March 4, 2025
Alexandria, VA— March 4, 2025 — American Seed Trade Association President & CEO Andy LaVigne issued the following statement on the news of additional tariffs imposed between the United States and its trading partners:
“As we approach the start of another planting season, American farmers and the seed companies that support them are facing a difficult economic landscape, as the costs of agricultural production continue to rise, and the global market landscape continues to shift. The news of additional tariffs, as well as expected retaliatory tariffs, introduce significant uncertainty that will negatively impact those who help grow the food, feed, fiber, and fuel for millions of American families,” said Andy LaVigne, President & CEO of the American Seed Trade Association.
“The ability to move seed internationally is a fundamental component of the years-long research and development (R&D) pipelines that allow U.S. farmers to have access to the best seeds and agricultural innovations in the world. Plant breeders rely on trade to expedite crop improvement, test-drive new crop varieties in specific environments, and conduct critical functions to increase volumes of seed in a clean and efficient way – all before those seeds can be sold to farmers. Many aspects of this seed research, development, and production cannot be relocated, and tariffs could increase costs for farmers producing many important commodities.”
“We encourage the Trump Administration to quickly come to a resolution with our trading partners that benefits both our national security and our food security.”
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Founded in 1883, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) represents nearly 700 companies involved in seed production, plant breeding and related industries in North America. ASTA is the leading voice of action in all matters concerning the development, marketing and movement of seed, associated products and services throughout the world. The association’s broad membership offers varieties from alfalfa to zucchini and all production types including conventional, organic and biotech. ASTA promotes the development of better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life. Visit www.betterseed.org to learn more.
