Simplified Summary:
I lay out five practical ways to grow trade for Missouri farm goods and livestock—both at home and overseas—without raising taxes or using gimmicks.
1. Build Stronger Local Markets
Missouri farmers need steady, local buyers who pay fair prices. We can build strong local trade by:
- Expanding Missouri Grown: This program connects farmers with restaurants, schools, and grocers. It also supports agritourism and direct-to-consumer sales. Learn more.
- Growing Farm-to-School: Schools and childcare centers can get reimbursed for buying specialty crops from Missouri farmers—up to $4,000 per district. More here.
- Expanding State-Inspected Processing: Local meat and poultry processors can sell in-state, creating jobs and keeping value in Missouri. Details here.
2. Grow Our Export Markets
We already export billions in farm goods, but we can do more—especially for small and mid-sized producers.
- Use State Export Services: The Missouri Department of Agriculture helps farmers connect with foreign buyers and navigate export rules. Export help.
- Apply for MAP Funding: USDA’s Market Access Program (MAP) pays up to 50% of overseas marketing costs. Program info.
- Work with SUSTA: The Southern U.S. Trade Association supports small producers in foreign markets. Explore SUSTA.
- Join Export Councils: Missouri District Export Council and Food Export–Midwest offer education, grants, and connections. MODEC | Food Export
3. Invest in Better Ports and Roads
We’re centrally located, but that only helps if we can move product quickly and affordably.
- Grow the Ag Coast: St. Louis’s 15-mile barge hub is the most efficient in the country. Let’s use it to ship more grain and livestock feed.
- Improve Rural Ports: Upgrade the New Bourbon Port and Port of Kansas City to handle more bulk shipments.
- Partner with the Freightway: The St. Louis Regional Freightway prioritizes ag shipping projects—rail, roads, and terminals.
4. Use Smart Funding and Partnerships
Farmers don’t need handouts—they need fair access to resources already on the books.
- Expand Access to Grants and Loans: USDA and state programs offer loans, storage help, and cost-sharing for upgrades.
- Leverage Mizzou Research: MU Extension helps with drought-tolerant crops, yield improvements, and value-added product ideas.
- Convene Quarterly Roundtables: Bring together farmers, shippers, exporters, and state officials to solve problems and share best practices.
5. Fix Policy Barriers
Most producers are stuck behind red tape while corporations skate by. We can fix that.
- Appoint an Ag Export Coordinator: One person at MDA should lead trade strategy, cut delays, and support producers directly.
- Create a Missouri Export Accelerator Fund: A $1 million fund could help small producers pay for certifications, packaging, or international marketing.
- Push for Tariff Relief and Easier Export Rules: Missouri should work with the U.S. Trade Representative to open new markets and reduce costs.
Final Word
Our farmers don’t need more speeches. They need ports that work, buyers who pay fair prices, and policy that puts rural Missouri first. With the right steps, Missouri can lead the nation in honest, profitable trade—for every farm, not just the big ones.