USDA has extended the deadline for certifying production and signing up for the Market Facilitation Program from May 1 to May 17. American Soybean Association Director and North Dakota farmer Monte Peterson says many farmers in his state are still trying to harvest the 2018 soybean crop and so for them this extension is welcome.
He says they weren’t surprised Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue didn’t announce another MFP payment while in North Dakota over the weekend.
However, Peterson says farmers did tell the Secretary they’re frustrated with how long the China trade negotiations are dragging on and if a deal isn’t cut soon, they may again push for assistance.
White House Economic Advisor Larry Kudlow says the Trump Administration is ready to provide more federal aid to farmers if required. He says they’ve allocated $12 billion to farm assistance.
