Soybean growers pleased with Obama's trade plans

ASA appreciates President Barack Obama's commitment to the Trans-Pacific Partnership.
ASA appreciates President Barack Obama's commitment to the Trans-Pacific Partnership. | File photo
The American Soybean Association (ASA) was pleased with President Barack Obama’s final State of the Union address on Tuesday, especially the inclusion of trade and economy plans.

“The commitment of this administration to trade is something that we have appreciated at every turn, and the President’s final State of the Union address this evening shows that course will continue throughout the year,” ASA President Richard Wilkins said on Tuesday night after the address.

ASA appreciates the Obama administration’s commitment to the Trans-Pacific Partnership, recognizing it will be a big change in trade and for Congress. ASA is dedicated to getting it passed because soybeans would be directly exported to the 11 nations for a profit of approximately $5.4 billion annually.

In addition, meat exports would increase, which means the need for soymeal to feed cattle would also increase. Emerging economies would increase their demand through long-term relationships, and help with further economic development. 

“Another positive signal from the administration is its continued commitment to expanding our relationship with Cuba," Wilkins said. "ASA supports the development of further trade ties in Cuba because of the proximity and promise of that economy, and we appreciate and welcome the president’s persistence on the issue. Moving forward, we will only escalate our commitment to working with the administration and Congress to expand our trading relationships in all corners of the world."