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Soybean leaders push trade, infrastructure and renewable‑fuel support as tariffs and markets loom
Summary
Darren Johnson, president of the Minnesota Soybean Growers, told the Senate committee Minnesota is a top soybean state and urged continued support for export markets, infrastructure and biodiesel/SAF demand while raising concerns about tariffs and market volatility.
Darren Johnson, president of the Minnesota Soybean Growers and a fourth generation farmer from Wells, told the Senate committee that soybean farmers face volatile markets, rising input costs and weather risks even as Minnesota remains one of the nation’s largest soybean producers.
Johnson said more than 27,000 farmers fuel a statewide industry that supports jobs and export markets; he told the committee that more than 60% of Minnesota soybeans are exported and urged state leaders to back policies that preserve market access and expand demand for homegrown feed and fuels.
The witness highlighted Minnesota’s role in biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) development and asked lawmakers to support renewable fuels and infrastructure investment to keep Minnesota competitive. “Minnesota has been a leader in biodiesel with B20,” he said, and noted that SAF is a potential future market for soy products.
During questioning, Senator Kunish read a Minnesota Farmers Union letter that raised concerns about tariffs and cross‑border trade; Johnson said the situation was unfolding and that industry efforts are focused on maintaining trade relationships. Johnson said switching crops is not an easy or quick option for farmers—new equipment and capital would be required—and emphasized the need for domestic demand if export markets tighten.
Committee members asked about burdensome regulations and the effects of conservation and labor policy. Johnson said conservation practices differ farm‑to‑farm and warned against one‑size‑fits‑all rules; he also expressed concern about paid‑leave rules and other labor mandates that he said add costs for family farms.
No committee vote was taken on the testimony; members thanked the witness and flagged continued interest in trade, infrastructure and renewable‑fuel policies.
