ASA Urges Balance on Agricultural Drone Policy

The American Soybean Association is closely monitoring recent federal actions related to restrictions on certain foreign-manufactured drones used in U.S. agriculture and the potential impacts on farmers. Precision agriculture tools, including drones, are essential for today's farmers to manage costs, monitor crops, and operate efficiently. Foreign-manufactured drones represent a significant majority of the agricultural drone market, and sudden restrictions on their use without available domestically manufactured alternatives risk adding new financial and operational burdens for farmers already facing tight margins and market uncertainty.

"Soybean farmers depend on modern technology to stay competitive, efficient, and sustainable," said Scott Metzger, president of ASA and Ohio farmer. "While we recognize the importance of addressing national security concerns, it's critical that policymakers fully consider the real-world impacts these decisions can have on farmers who rely on these tools every day. Taking proven technology out of farmers' toolboxes without workable alternatives only adds cost and uncertainty at a time when farmers can least afford it."

ASA has consistently supported policies that protect farmers' access to reliable technology, broadband connectivity, GPS systems, and spectrum resources critical to modern agriculture. We urge policymakers and federal agencies to work with agriculture stakeholders to address security concerns while preserving farmers' access to essential tools.