As an exporter of sweet potatoes in the United States, North Carolina encounters economic challenges due to recent tariff escalations. "Sweet potatoes are a big crop for North Carolina; in fact, our farmers produce over 60% of the total US market," stated Steve Troxler, commissioner of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS). Export markets hold importance for North Carolina sweet potato producers, with exports reaching over $129.3 million in 2024. Key markets include European countries, Canada, and Mexico.
Since 1971, North Carolina has led in sweet potato production, contributing 64% of the national output. Major production areas include Sampson, Nash, Wilson, and Johnston counties. The sweet potato was designated the state vegetable in 1995 by the North Carolina General Assembly.
Experts highlight lessons from the trade war's impact on sweet potato farmers. "One is that agriculture can inadvertently become collateral damage in broader trade disputes, as happened with the soybean industry," noted Michelle Grainger, executive director of the North Carolina Sweet Potato Commission. Blanket tariffs impose hardships on farmers reliant on exports, affecting market growth and cost pressures.
Predictability is vital for trade market stability. "Sudden shifts in trade policy disrupt planning, investment, and supply chain relationships," added Grainger. Future strategies should incorporate agricultural input to ensure growers are protected yet connected to global opportunities.
North Carolina's sweet potato exports, mainly to Europe and China, face new tariffs. China plans a 10% tariff on North Carolina exports, affecting fruits and vegetables. "If those trading partners respond with retaliatory tariffs, which China already has, or shift to other suppliers, farmers here could face a sharp decline in demand," stated Kelly Lester, policy analyst for the Center for Food, Power, and Life at the John Locke Foundation.
Source: Carolina Journal