Trump Unveils $12 Billion Aid Package to Support U.S. Farmers Hit by Trade Policies

U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday announced a $12 billion aid package aimed at supporting American farmers struggling with rising costs and lost sales linked to his trade policies. Announced during a White House roundtable attended by top officials and representatives from major crop and livestock sectors, the relief is designed to help growers manage expenses for the next planting season and stabilize incomes affected by the long-running trade war with China.

According to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, $11 billion will be directed to row crop farmers by February 28, while an additional $1 billion for fruits, vegetables and specialty crops will be finalized later. Payments will be calculated based on planted acreage, production costs and other factors, funded through the Commodity Credit Corporation and tariff revenues. Trump also said he intends to ease environmental regulations on farm machinery to help lower equipment prices, asserting that unnecessary rules have burdened manufacturers and farmers alike.

The announcement comes amid warnings from farm groups and lawmakers about growing financial strain in the agricultural sector. Despite steady government support—including near-record payments this year—farmers continue to face higher input costs and low crop prices. Critics, including Senator Amy Klobuchar, argue that ending trade tariffs would provide more certainty than temporary relief. Analysts also caution that net farm income could drop by over $30 billion by 2026 as government aid declines and market pressures persist.

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