tariffs

Christmas Tree Farms have declined over previous 20 years; those remaining farms are experiencing steady sales in 2025.

The one-time investment comes as U.S. farmers struggle with rising costs and sweeping tariffs. Most of the funding, $11 billion, will go toward farmers that produce row crops such as corn, soybeans and wheat.

For weeks, there was a 145 percent tariff between China and the U.S. Now, for the next 90 days, they stand at 30 percent on Chinese goods and 10 percent on U.S. goods. Kyle Anderson, an economist with IU’s Kelley School of Business said the soybean industry may need to find new buyers for its goods fast or risk wasting tons of materials or selling at a loss.

Trump's threatened 25% tariff quickly drew retaliation from Canada, which imported about 30,000 RVs last year from the U.S. Most of those were made in the Elkhart area.

Farmers' positive sentiment towards the future spiked following the November election according to the latest Purdue University Ag Economy Barometer. That’s despite President-elect Donald Trump’s threats of tariffs that in the past have hurt farmers.

U.S. and China are expected to negotiate next month. Despite that, both countries either imposed or increased penalties on billions of dollars of goods earlier this month.

Pence says in the heavy manufacturing and agriculture state of Indiana, hes not worried about tariffs on steel as much as tariffs on crops, especially soybeans.

Of the 450 farmers surveyed around the state 72% said the effects of U.S. trade policies were putting their farm operations at risk.

Chamber President Kevin Brinegar says there are important trade issues that need to be addressed with China. But he cautions against putting U.S. businesses in the crosshairs.

The increased tariffs could soon make toilet paper, light fixtures, computers and furniture, more expensive.