North American Trade Remains Critical for Nebraska Agriculture

By Abygail Petersen, NEFB Economist and Policy Analyst

Nebraska's dependence on international trade underscores the importance of strong relationships with Canada and Mexico. Nebraska exported $8.19 billion in agricultural products in2024, making it the nation's fifth-largest agricultural exporting state. The state's top agricultural exports were beef ($1.67 billion), corn ($1.65billion), and soybeans ($1.61 billion). Together these account for nearly two-thirds of total agricultural exports.

The importance of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) becomes even clearer when looking at Nebraska's trade relationships. Mexico and Canada are Nebraska's largest agricultural customers. According to the Office of U.S. Trade Representative, with around 25% of all total export goods, Mexico is Nebraska’s largest market at $1.9 billion. In 2024, Mexico purchased 93% of Nebraska's exported corn, along with $317 million in soybeans and $179 million in soybean meal. Canada is not just a neighboring country but integral part of Nebraska’s economy. Nebraska exports around $1.5 billion in goods to Canada. Beyond imports, USMCA has a significant impact on fertilizer prices and supply. With over 80% of potash fertilizer coming from Canada, this trading relationship is important for both directions of product movement.

As discussions continue regarding the future of North American trade, Nebraska farmers and ranchers have a strong stake in maintaining and strengthening an agreement that supports one of the state's most important economic sectors. Upholding the integrity of the USMCA is a top priority. Ensuring Nebraska producers have fair and competitive markets for selling commodities is essential for more than agriculture but Nebraska as a whole.

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