From new USDA funding to shifting trade dynamics, several key updates could influence farm decisions in the months ahead. Here’s a quick look at this week’s important agriculture industry updates.

1. USDA Invests $26.8M to Strengthen Local Ag Markets

USDA is investing more than $26.8 million through the Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP) to support 87 projects aimed at expanding local and regional food systems. The funding is designed to help farmers connect more directly with consumers while building stronger market opportunities across the supply chain. Read the full USDA release to access the full list of funded projects.

2. Farm Bureau Pushes Congress to Boost Demand for U.S. Agriculture

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall urged lawmakers to strengthen demand for U.S. agricultural products, highlighting solutions such as year-round E15, improved labor programs and expanding local purchasing in schools and the military. He also raised concerns about fertilizer supply risks tied to global conflict. Read more and view video clips from Capitol Hill of Zippy Duvall’s Senate testimony.

3. Farmers Raise Concerns Over Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Requirements

Wyoming Farm Bureau President Todd Fornstrom told lawmakers that diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) requirements are creating added costs and operational challenges for farmers. He called for policy changes, including support for legislation to improve equipment reliability in cold weather. Read more to understand how DEF requirements impact farm equipment and operating costs.

4. India Delays U.S. Trade Deal Amid New Investigation

India is postponing a potential trade agreement with the United States following a new Section 301 investigation targeting multiple industries, including agriculture. This new U.S. investigation is to review structural excess capacity and production in manufacturing sectors in 16 trading partners, including India. The delay adds uncertainty to export opportunities amid ongoing shifts in global trade tensions. Read more from Reuters to see how trade uncertainty could affect U.S. agriculture exports.

5. U.S. and Mexico Begin USMCA Trade Agreement Review Talks

The United States and Mexico are launching the formal review process for the USMCA trade agreement, with negotiations beginning mid-March. The talks will evaluate how the agreement is functioning and address key trade issues that impact cross-border agriculture and supply chains.

Farmers should watch closely as outcomes could influence market access, trade stability and long-term export opportunities. Read more to learn what the USMCA review could mean for trade stability in North America.

6. U.S. Reaffirms Commitment to EU Trade Deal

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reaffirmed a commitment to a trade deal with the European Union during discussions with the EU’s trade chief Maroš Šefčovič. The deal could go to a vote as early as late-March. The decision could play a key role in shaping future export opportunities and tariff structures for U.S. agriculture. Read more to see how the EU trade deal could impact global market access for farmers.