Foreign hands-on American Soil - A closer look

Sep 28, 2023

Foreign ownership of U.S. farmland is under the Senate's microscope. Owning approximately 3% of the total agricultural land, foreign entities have sparked a national conversation.

Senator Jon Tester emphasizes, "Food security is national security." The idea of nations like China and Russia having stakes in U.S. land is unsettling, especially with a 66% increase in foreign ownership since 2010.

While Canada and several European countries lead in foreign investment, China's strategic investments near military bases are particularly concerning.

Proposed legislation aims to curb foreign ownership. Amendments and bills, including the Farmland Security Act of 2023, are being discussed to protect American agriculture from potential threats.

However, the path is challenging. The impending expiration of the current farm bill and the sluggish progress are sources of frustration. Senator Ernst advocates addressing foreign investment and putting more emphasis on "farm" in the farm bill.

The potential impact on trade is also a critical factor. Restrictive measures could trigger retaliation, affecting the U.S.'s agricultural trade, especially with major importers like China.

Source : wisconsinagconnection

Video: Home Grown Ontario Tulips

Ontario’s flower sector is blooming ??

With more than $1 billion in farmgate sales and over $650 million in annual exports—much of it centred in the Niagara region—Ontario growers are a major force in Canada’s floriculture industry. In fact, the province produces roughly 50% of all flowers grown in the country, serving a market of over 100 million consumers within a one-day drive.

It’s a powerful example of how strategic location, cross-border access, and strong production capacity come together to support both local agriculture and global markets ??

?? Watch as Andrew Morse, Executive Director of Flowers Canada, shares insights and the full story behind Ontario’s tulip industry and its thriving flower sector.