The rich countries of Europe along with some developing nations in Asia and Africa continue to oppose the planting, and in some cases the consumption, of GMOs due to supposed fear that they may ultimately prove to be harmful to human health or the environment. However, that clearly does not seem to be the situation in Cuba. EU Targets Argentine Export Taxes The EU and Mercosur countries are in the process of trading market access offers as a precursor to a possible free trade deal. Among the EU demands is the elimination of Argentina’s export tax on soybeans, currently assessed at 30 percent with 27 percent on soyoil and soymeal. The EU wants the export tax rate on soybeans eliminated because the differential rate creates an incentive for...
Weighing in on strategic realignment
WPI’s team was retained by the governing board of a U.S. industry organization to review a decision, reached by vote, to invest significant assets into the development and management of an export trading company. WPI’s team conducted a formal review of this decision and concluded that the current level of market saturation would limit the benefits of the investment. Based on WPI’s analysis and recommended actions, the board subsequently reversed its decision and undertook a strategic planning effort to identify more impactful investments. On behalf of numerous clients, WPI has not only assisted in identifying strategic paths but also advised their implementation.
What You Need to Know Today: After a period of limited activity, USDA reported a sizeable 613 KMT in soybean export sales, including 330 KMT to China and 283 KMT to unknown destinations, potentially also China. The purchases represent a meaningful pickup in demand and bring China closer to ful...
Key Takeaways: Consumer spending is a key driver of the U.S. economy, and the latest retail sales data indicate that spending remains robust despite inflation. In September, total retail and food service sales rose more than 6 percent year-over-year, with food service spending up 7 percent and...
The Trump import plan for 300,000 MT of beef supplies used for ground beef, i.e., lean trim, from September through November has, according to Secretary Brooke Rollins, brought some relief to beef prices. The Executive Order states that the Secretary of Agriculture will analyze and review the m...