An Ag Coalition led by the U.S. Grains Council says an extension of Brazil’s tariff rate quota on U.S. ethanol gives both sides time to work out an agreement that hopefully leads to free trade. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says having this TRQ extension helps but doesn’t solve the trade problem.
He says the goal for the U.S. is to get Brazil to completely eliminate the 20 percent tariff and it’s important negotiators spend the 90 day extension to find a workable compromise benefitting both countries.
LeGrand says from 2011 to 2018 the U.S. and Brazil traded freely until just recently when the Brazilians brought up this 20 percent tariff. He says the Brazilians need to be more above board and work for true free trade.
Joining the U.S. Grains Council in pushing for free and open ethanol markets is the National Corn Grower’s Association, Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association.
