BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) – The head of North Dakota’s biggest agriculture group says the Trump administration’s $12 billion plan to help farmers hurt by retaliatory tariffs will do little to tamp down anxiety over ongoing trade disputes.
North Dakota Farmers Union President Mark Watne says the program is an acknowledgement by the president of the “huge impact” the trade war is having on farmers.
Watne says the temporary aid is a start in addressing the problem but a long-term solution is needed.
U.S. Durum Growers Association President Mark Martinson of Rolla says the money won’t go far. But he says he supports Trump’s attempt to level the trade playing field with other countries.
Martinson believes “Pandora’s box has been opened” when it comes to the trade war and farmers must “ride this out.”
