Alexandria, Virginia, USA
July 14, 2026

In the last two weeks, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) has filed comments in three separate Section 301 investigations launched by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), continuing its push against tariffs affecting the U.S. seed sector.

In verbal testimony and outreach to Administration officials and key congressional leaders, ASTA continues to call for elimination of tariffs on planting seeds, which threaten the future of U.S. agricultural innovation and U.S. farmers’ economic competitiveness.

“The U.S. seed sector needs immediate relief from tariffs on seeds,” said Andy LaVigne, President & CEO, ASTA. “We are uniquely exposed to U.S. tariffs, which are adding millions of dollars in expenses to research and development (R&D). U.S. seed companies must move seed within their own R&D pipelines to conduct necessary steps in testing and production that cannot be replicated or relocated. If we want America to continue to prosper, we must empower and enable seed companies to succeed by removing regulatory hurdles, trade barriers, and other obstacles threatening U.S. agriculture innovation. Without relief soon, U.S. farmers may potentially face higher prices and fewer choices in the marketplace.”

Click below to read recent comments filed by ASTA on several Section 301 investigations:

• Forced Labor Section 301 investigation
• Brazil Section 301 investigation
• Vietnam Section 301 investigation
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Website: http://www.betterseed.org/

Published: July 15, 2026