Historian to examine trade policy shifts at IFBF summit

Trade has become a deeply controversial subject across the American political spectrum, trade historian Samuel Gregg acknowledges.

Gregg, president and chair in economics history at the American Institute for Economic Research, will examine the political forces that have shaped American trade policy over time and explain why free trade matters for the future at the 2026 Iowa Farm Bureau Economic Summit.

Gregg will lead off the summit July 17 at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny. The one-day event, "Trade Crossroads: Forces Shaping the Future of Ag," will examine how global trade forces affect Iowa agriculture and offer a roadmap for the future.

A staunch advocate for trade liberalization, Gregg argues that free trade is better for the economy than protectionism and would make the U.S. more influential on the global stage.

"Samuel Gregg has written and spoken extensively on the principles of free markets and global trade liberalization over a long and distinguished career. His thought-provoking analysis on the history of trade policy and how government intervention has influenced economic outcomes is incredibly relevant to today's debates and will set up the rest of the summit perfectly," said Christopher Pudenz, Iowa Farm Bureau economics and research manager. "Farmers are among those most directly affected by ongoing shifts in trade policy, tariffs and international demand, which often have immediate, tangible effects on farm operations and supply chains."

Tariffs and U.S. priorities

Former U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Bob Lighthizer will headline the 2026 Iowa Farm Bureau Economic Summit with a fireside chat with Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson, providing insight into the Trump administration's approach to trade policy and tariffs. Lighthizer served as USTR during the first Trump administration.

Additionally, Gregg Doud of the National Milk Producers Federation will discuss priority U.S. trade efforts, and leading economists will provide insights on meat, dairy and grain exports.

Leaders from Iowa State University's Center for Agricultural and Rural Development (CARD) will unveil a joint study regarding the health of the Iowa agricultural economy, with an emphasis on trade.

Attendees will also hear real-world examples from companies that are directly exporting agricultural products, offering insights into navigating international markets for small- and medium-sized businesses.

Registration for the Economic Summit is $25 for Farm Bureau members and $200 for non-Farm Bureau members through May 31. After May 31, the price increases to $50 for Farm Bureau members and $400 for non-Farm Bureau members.

For a complete agenda and registration information, visit https://www.iowafarmbureau.com/economicsummit.