'Everybody is scared to death': Soybean farmer shares struggles amid Trump's tariffs

Market Impact of Trade War - US soybean farmers are suffering due to President Trump's tariffs, especially with China ceasing soybean purchases since May [1] - China has shifted soybean purchases to Brazil and Argentina [2] - An aid package to Argentina backfired as Argentina removed export tariffs on grains and sold soybeans to China, reducing US leverage [3] - A soybean farmer reported a shift from $12 billion to zero in sales [5] - Argentina received $20 billion of taxpayer money, becoming a stronger competitor [6] - China bought a large quantity of soybeans from Argentina after a tax holiday, approximately 30-40 container ships, which equals about 65,000 metric tons per ship or 22 million bushels [6] - Argentinian soybeans are being sold at $230% over the November board, while US farmers are getting 50 cents under [7] Farmer Sentiment and Economic Concerns - Farmers are nervous and scared about the current market conditions [11] - Some older farmers are considering quitting, unwilling to lose 30 years of work [12] - Bankers are concerned about farmers' ability to repay loans due to declining equipment and land values [13] - Farmers do not want to be bailed out by the CCC, they want the markets to work [16] - Tariffs have destroyed markets for family farmers, potentially leading to consolidation and food security issues [17] Government and Policy Issues - Government shutdown is hindering farmers' ability to get loans and insurance for alternative crops like canola [9] - The timing of potential discussions with China about soybeans in November is questioned, as Brazil will already be in full swing with their harvest [18]