Commodity Classic Interview with NAWG’s Nathan Keane

Why It Matters

Policy moves on the Farm Bill, trade programs and USMCA renewal directly affect U.S. wheat competitiveness and export markets, while credit and relief gaps are intensifying financial distress on farms—raising risks of consolidation and supply impacts. Predictable trade rules and financing reforms are therefore critical to stabilize farm incomes and global market share.

Summary

Nathan Keane, currently treasurer of the National Association of Wheat Growers, will become vice president and outlined priorities at Commodity Classic in San Antonio. He highlighted Farm Bill wins during continuing resolutions—notably a wheat reference price increase from $5.50 to $6.35 and crop insurance protections—but said key items remain, including shifting certain trade-promotion programs to USDA MAP/FMD, modernizing farm credit, and codifying Food for Peace. Keane stressed the urgency of renewing USMCA for Mexico-bound wheat exports and lamented that tariffs and trade unpredictability are undermining buyer confidence. He warned that high input costs, interest rates and volatile markets are forcing some farms to exit, with bridge payments offering limited relief for a difficult 2026 outlook.

Original Description

Corryn La Rue sat down with National Association of Wheat Grower’s Incoming Vice President Nathan Keane during Commodity Classic earlier this month in San Antonio. Check out their interview.