President Donald Trump indicated Monday that he will pursue tariffs on Indian rice following a compelling presentation by industry leader Meryl Kennedy. The announcement occurred during an event unveiling $12 billion in agricultural support, highlighting the administration’s focus on protecting domestic farming interests.
Kennedy, who founded and leads Kennedy Rice Mills and 4 Sisters Rice, provided Trump with detailed information about market conditions affecting American rice producers. She explained how international imports, particularly from Asian countries, have driven down prices to levels that threaten the viability of domestic operations.
Trump received briefing materials identifying India, Thailand, and China as primary sources of allegedly dumped rice. The president questioned why these countries face limited restrictions on their exports to the United States, specifically asking Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent whether India enjoys exemptions from standard import duties.
Bessent attempted to explain that comprehensive trade negotiations with India are ongoing and that rice policy is part of broader discussions. Trump rejected this rationale, stating firmly that dumping practices are unacceptable regardless of diplomatic circumstances and promising to “take care” of the problem.
The president’s protectionist instincts also surfaced regarding Canadian fertilizer, with Trump suggesting that tariffs could boost domestic production. He argued that while American producers can meet domestic fertilizer needs, they require protection from cheaper imports. Critics note that such policies could raise farming costs and strain important international relationships.