On Dec. 8, 2025, the USDA announced $11 billion in financial support to the producers of soybeans and 19 other row crops. Payments will be capped at $155,000 per farm and only entities making less than $900,000/year are eligible.
Payments to farmers will be made in late-February 2026. While beneficial, the financial assistance falls far short of what's needed to shore up the economic challenges facing U.S. farmers.
Federal economic assistance is not a substitute for trade—but it is a crucial bridge that helps farmers withstand income losses caused by stalled markets and global trade disputes. With declining cash prices, historically weak basis, and rising production costs, timely support is necessary to maintain farm solvency and rural economic stability.
An American Farm Bureau review of U.S. Department of Agriculture data finds American farmers remain in the red for the third straight year, spending $179 billion to produce just $144 billion worth of crops. A 2025 shortfall of $28 billion pushes total losses since 2023 past $50 billion.
Key Facts
- Economic assistance and trade agreements are not mutually exclusive; both are needed.
- Assistance serves as a bridge, not a replacement, for lost markets.
- Ongoing trade disputes are creating long-term risk of permanently reduced market share.
- Farmers need revenue now to offset low prices amid high input costs.
- U.S. soybean competitors are benefiting while U.S. access remains constrained.
What ISA Is Doing
- Calling for expedited federal economic assistance to offset near-term losses caused by unresolved trade conflicts.
- Coordinating with national soybean and commodity partners to communicate urgent needs to USDA and congressional decision-makers.
- Ensuring farmer voices are heard by policymakers about the financial pressure created by lost markets and rising costs.