IDAHO WHEAT COMMISSION

News

Strategies to Address Consolidation and Concentration in the Seed Industry

Farmers and independent seed businesses have long expressed concern over concentration and consolidation in agriculture, including seed and ag inputs. Competition in the marketplace, diversity of choice, and regional commitments are important to a healthy ag industry. In 2021, an Executive Order was issued instructing the Secretary of Agriculture to report on concerns and strategies to ensure that intellectual property systems (IP), including Patents, while incentivizing innovation, do not unnecessarily reduce competition in the seed and input markets.

The report highlights several key recommendations, including: Establishment of a Farmer Seed Liaison in the Agricultural Marketing Service to facilitate communication between farmers, plant breeders, and relevant agencies involved with IP.

More and Better Choices for Farmers

June 17, 2025

Unsettled Tariff Situation Disrupts Transportation

Transportation, a cornerstone of the U.S. agricultural and food industries, is under strain due to ongoing tariff uncertainty and trade disruptions. New levies, retaliatory tariffs, and port fees have slowed imports of key food inputs—such as grains, oils, sweeteners, and packaging—raising costs across the supply chain. Ocean freight and trucking have been hit hard, with price volatility expected to push costs onto consumers. Domestic rail has remained a reliable and cost-effective mode for moving agricultural products, offering stability amid the chaos. The broader uncertainty surrounding trade policies and transportation infrastructure is causing industry-wide anxiety, making it difficult for producers, manufacturers, and shippers to plan ahead.

June 17, 2025

Competitive Window Boosts New Crop U.S. Wheat Sales

The U.S. wheat industry is seeing a resurgence in competitiveness as the 2025/26 marketing year begins, driven by favorable conditions including a weaker dollar, improved weather, and reduced trade barriers following USTR rulings on Section 301 actions against China. This price competitiveness has fueled a sharp increase in export sales. Since mid-April, U.S. wheat sales have surged 170%, with 3.1 million metric tons (MMT) booked in just five weeks. Key buyers like Mexico, Japan, and the Philippines increased purchases, and non-traditional markets such as Mauritius returned to buying U.S. wheat after a long hiatus.

June 17, 2025

PNW Wheat Leaders Hope to Avoid Extreme Heat Pre-Harvest

Pacific Northwest wheat leaders are cautiously optimistic about the upcoming harvest, hoping to avoid extreme heat and secure timely rain. Each voiced concerns over weather volatility, rising input costs, and regulatory pressures impacting wheat growers. They warned of potential crop damage in Idaho without imminent rain, and noted long-term challenges for farm viability amid global competition and political uncertainty. All emphasized the need for farmer advocacy, improved infrastructure, and ongoing investment in wheat research. Despite hardships, they urged fellow growers to stay involved and keep sharing their stories to ensure agriculture’s future.

June 17, 2025

Idaho Wheat Commissioner Joins U.S. Wheat Team Exploring Challenges and Opportunities in Egypt, Morocco and Portugal

Idaho Wheat Commissioner Cory Kress participated in a U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) Board Team trip to Egypt, Morocco, and Portugal to engage with customers and explore market opportunities for U.S. wheat. Led by USW staff, the trip aimed to strengthen relationships, showcase the value of U.S. wheat, and understand market challenges. The team toured flour mills, pasta factories, and bakeries, and met with millers, importers, and food companies. The trip highlighted both opportunities and challenges in expanding U.S. wheat market share and emphasized the unique technical support and service USW provides.

June 13, 2025

Idaho Wheat Wants to Take YOU out to the Ballgame

We are teaming up with Idaho Barley and the Idaho Grain Producers Association for Idaho Grain Night with the Idaho Falls Chukars on Saturday, July 19, 2025. The first pitch will be thrown at 7:05pm. Scan the QR code or click the link below to reserve your FREE tickets now.