Trump’s Argentina aid plan sparks outrage among US farmers

U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to offer Argentina a financial assistance package worth up to $20 billion has triggered strong backlash from American farmers. They argue that supporting a key competitor on the global soybean market undermines U.S. agricultural interests, especially as producers continue to face falling prices and trade barriers with China.

According to the Trump administration, the aid package is meant to stabilize Argentina’s economy ahead of elections and support President Javier Milei, a key U.S. ally in the region. However, Milei’s reforms — including the removal of export taxes and currency controls — have allowed Argentine producers to boost soybean exports to China, effectively displacing American farmers from one of their largest markets.

The move has sparked political controversy in Washington. Democrats accused Trump of “giving away taxpayer money to corrupt allies,” while several Republicans also voiced opposition. Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Representative Julie Fedorchak of North Dakota both questioned why the U.S. should “bail out Argentina” while its policies hurt American soybean producers.

The frustration comes amid a broader downturn in U.S. agriculture. Since the commodity price peak of 2022, revenues from corn, soybean, wheat, and cotton have sharply declined, while input costs for seed, fertilizer, and fuel have continued to rise. Some farmers, particularly in Arkansas, say the sector is “controlled by a handful of corporations” that dictate prices and limit competition.

In response, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division have launched a joint investigation into potential monopolistic practices by major suppliers of fertilizers, feed, and agrochemicals. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the goal is “to protect American farmers and ranchers from the burden of high and volatile input costs.” Still, analysts warn that meaningful relief may take time, as the sector faces one of its most challenging periods in recent years.

Tags: soybean, USA, Argentina, subsidies