Idaho’s agricultural exports decreased by almost eight percent in 2016. The downturn comes as the U.S. dollar remains strong compared to other major currencies.
Since its record high in 2014, Idaho agricultural exports have been declining. The Capital Press newspaper reports the high value of the dollar is part of the problem. Digging into the numbers, Mexico imported the most Idaho products – about $176 million worth. Canada and China came next.
Idaho dairymen have had a tough couple of years when it comes to exports. Although dairy product exports declined by 30 percent last year, sugars, grains and vegetable numbers are all up.
But University of Idaho Agricultural Economist Garth Taylor told the Capital Press that along with currency pricing, embargos from Russia and crop production in other parts of the world mean the state will likely continue to face export challenges.
Find reporter Frankie Barnhill on Twitter @FABarnhill
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