Wisconsin Corn Raises Concerns Over Bayer Glyphosate Petition

It was announced yesterday that the Monsanto Company and its subsidiary Ruveon LLC, both owned by Bayer, have filed petitions with the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) and the U.S. Department of Commerce seeking anti-dumping and countervailing duties on glyphosate imports. This petition is cause for serious concern from Wisconsin Corn.

Glyphosate is one of the most widely used herbicides in corn production and an essential tool for Wisconsin farmers. Any action that restricts supply or increases the cost of glyphosate would place additional financial pressure on growers already facing tight margins and continued uncertainty in the agricultural economy.

"Farmers depend on access to affordable, reliable crop protection tools to remain competitive," said Paul Jarvis, a Wautoma corn grower and president of Wisconsin Corn Growers Association. "Trade actions that have the potential to raise input costs ultimately hurt family farms and rural communities across Wisconsin. At a time when farmers are already managing volatile markets and rising production expenses, increasing the cost of essential crop inputs is the wrong approach."

Bayer's petition alleges that glyphosate imports from China are being sold at less than fair market value in the United States. If approved, the requested duties could increase the cost of one of the most commonly used herbicides in U.S. agriculture. WCGA will continue working with the National Corn Growers Association and federal policymakers to advocate for policies that protect farmers' access to affordable crop inputs and preserve the competitiveness of Wisconsin agriculture.