Washington: The U.S. Department of Agriculture has released details of a 12 billion dollar aid package aimed at helping American farmers cope with falling crop prices rising costs and trade disruptions. While the support offers short term relief many growers say it will not be enough to address the deeper problems facing the farm sector.
According to details first reported by Reuters the package will provide about 11 billion dollars in direct payments to farmers based on the number of acres they planted in 2025. Another 1 billion dollars has been set aside for specialty crop growers and sugar producers with distribution details still to be announced.
The highest payments under the plan go to rice farmers who are set to receive more than 130 dollars per acre. Cotton and oats farmers will also receive relatively higher rates. Soybean farmers however are expected to get around 31 dollars per acre a figure many say does not reflect the losses they have faced in recent years. Corn and wheat growers are also expected to receive more modest payments.
Farm groups have welcomed the aid as timely cash support ahead of the next planting season but warn it does not solve long term challenges. Many farmers say low global prices shrinking export markets and high input costs continue to strain their livelihoods. Some soybean growers have expressed disappointment saying the payments barely cover a fraction of their losses.
Officials describe the package as a bridge to help farmers stay afloat while broader trade and agricultural policies take shape. Payments are expected to be made by the end of February 2026 once planting data is verified.
Economists and farm advocates say the aid may help prevent immediate financial distress but stress that lasting stability will depend on stronger markets improved trade access and long term policy reforms.