Peace Garden News

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak of North Dakota met with leaders from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) in Washington, D.C., to discuss the effects of tariffs on the state's agriculture and energy sectors. Fedorchak expressed concerns about market access, pricing, supply chain disruptions, and uncertainty caused by tariffs.

“North Dakota’s farmers and energy producers are on the front lines of our trade policies, and I understand the real concerns they have about market access, pricing, supply chain disruptions, and uncertainty caused by tariffs,” Fedorchak stated. She mentioned that discussions included retaliatory tariffs from China, Mexico, and Canada. “I was encouraged to hear that USTR is making new market opportunities a top priority, and understands the urgency of this effort for farmers.”

Trade officials noted that imports and exports of agricultural commodities might be exempt under current USMCA rules based on decisions by Mexico and Canada.

Fedorchak also emphasized her support for American energy dominance. “I underscored my strong support for the Trump administration’s emphasis on American energy dominance and the critical role new energy infrastructure such as pipelines, oil and gas producing equipment, and power generation facilities play in achieving this goal,” she said. The administration aims to enhance existing supply chains while developing new ones domestically.

The comprehensive trade policy is outlined in the January 20, 2025 Presidential Document titled America First Trade Policy. “These issues are vital to national and economic security,” Fedorchak added. She pledged continued collaboration with the Trump administration as trade policies evolve to protect producers and strengthen North Dakota's economy.

For those seeking more information about how these changes might affect their business operations, Fedorchak's office offers assistance in connecting with USTR’s public liaison office for updated information.