记者手记｜美国花旗参农的关税烦恼

Core Viewpoint - The ginseng industry in Wisconsin is facing significant challenges, including a decline in the number of growers, reduced production, and the impact of tariffs due to trade wars, which have created uncertainty in the market [1][2][3]. Group 1: Industry Overview - Wisconsin is the only region in the U.S. producing high-quality ginseng, with a history of 125 years in cultivation [1]. - The peak production period was in the 1980s and 1990s, with over 1,200 growers and an annual output exceeding 2.6 million pounds (approximately 1.18 million kilograms) [1]. - Currently, the number of growers has decreased to 79, with an expected further decline of 12 in the next two years [1][2]. Group 2: Production Challenges - Ginseng production in Wisconsin has dropped to about 1 million pounds (approximately 0.45 million kilograms) [2]. - Increased competition from countries like Canada and adverse weather conditions have contributed to the decline in production [2]. - The ginseng industry is heavily reliant on the Chinese market, with about 80% of Wisconsin ginseng exported or brought as gifts to China [2]. Group 3: Economic Impact - The trade war has led to significant financial losses for ginseng growers, with sales and employment decreasing [3]. - Production costs have increased five to six times since the 1980s, while the price of ginseng has remained stagnant or even decreased, leading to reduced interest in cultivation [3]. - Current wholesale prices for ginseng are around $25 to $30 per pound, compared to $40 per pound in the 1980s [3]. Group 4: Media Attention - Recent media coverage has increased awareness of the challenges faced by the Wisconsin ginseng industry, highlighting the impact of tariffs [4].