US farm, food groups largely critical of Trump tariffs

(Reuters) - Groups representing U.S. farmers and food processors were mostly critical of President
Here is what some farm trade and lobby groups said about the tariffs:
FARMER GROUPS
"We share the administration's goal of leveling the playing field with our international partners, but increased tariffs threaten the economic sustainability of farmers who have lost money on most major crops for the past three years," Zippy Duvall, the president of the group, said in a statement.
"One thing is certain: American family farmers and ranchers will bear the brunt of this global trade war,"
"Without meaningful support and a commitment to fair trade policies, we will lose even more family farms, weaken rural economies, and ultimately drive up costs and limit choices for consumers at the grocery store," he said.
DAIRY AND PRODUCE
Groups that represent dairy processors and fresh produce growers and retailers said the tariffs risked higher prices for U.S. consumers and smaller markets for farmers.
"Broad and prolonged tariffs on our top trading partners and growing markets will risk undermining our investments, raising costs for American businesses and consumers, and creating uncertainty for American dairy farmers and rural communities,"
"The global trade of fresh produce is essential to the health and well-being of people in every nation,"
BEEF AND SEAFOOD
The few positive reactions came from beef and seafood groups, who said they have been disadvantaged in the global market and see the tariffs as an opportunity for growth.
"We've watched as multi-generational family businesses tie up their boats, unable to compete with foreign producers who play by a completely different set of rules," said
"President Trump is taking action to address numerous trade barriers that prevent consumers overseas from enjoying high-quality, wholesome American beef,"
FARM STATE LAWMAKERS
"This is the biggest tax increase in a generation, and will increase costs by more than
"Increasing input costs, shutting farmers out of export markets and causing middle-class families to pay more at the grocery store is not a winning strategy. Starting trade wars puts family farmers in the crosshairs for retaliation," she said in a statement.
(This story has been corrected to fix the name of NCBA spokesperson from 'Eric' to 'Ethan' in paragraph 15)
(Reporting by
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