Barrasso Questions US Trade Rep on Wyoming Soda Ash, Beef, Sheep and Chemical Manufacturing

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) questioned United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on how trade barriers impact Wyoming's soda ash exports, beef, chemical manufacturing, and sheep industry.

Greer testified during today's Senate Committee on Finance hearing on the President's 2026 Trade Agenda.

On Soda Ash Exports:

"I want to talk about soda ash exports.

"As you know, Wyoming's Green River Basin is home to the world's largest deposits of naturally occurring trona - the mineral that's refined into soda ash.

"It's Wyoming's top export - supports thousands of jobs across the state.

"And, the industry is facing a serious challenge.

"That's because earlier this year, producers in India petitioned their government to restrict imports of American soda ash.

"The result could be a hard limit on how much American soda ash can enter their market, regardless of the price, regardless of the demand.

"And, our soda ash producers can compete with anyone in the world on a level playing field.

"What we're worrying about is what's happening in India - making sure we never get the level playing field.

"How are you working to ensure fair market access for American producers like soda ash in India?"

On Wyoming Beef:

"Wyoming Beef. Our ranchers produce the highest-quality beef in the world.

"Beef is Wyoming's top agricultural export - nearly $150 million shipped around the world each year.

"For far too long, our ranchers faced barriers that kept them out of foreign markets that they have every right to compete in.

"Through the Administration's trade agenda, we are seeing some real change - but we believe there is more work to be done.

"There's still too many markets that are able to hide behind unscientific and discriminatory restrictions that put our ranchers at a disadvantage.

"So, as you continue negotiating new trade agreements, what more can be done to open markets for American beef and ensure that Wyoming ranchers can compete on equal footing?"

On Wyoming Chemical Manufacturing:

"I appreciate the job you're doing highlighting American manufacturing job gains and wage growth.

"You did it in your testimony today. So, congratulations on your success there.

"You know, in Wyoming, chemical manufacturing is driving much of our progress.

"Wyoming sends over a billion dollars in chemical products across the world each year.

"Our producers are positioned to reach even more markets.

"So, trade deals like the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) have included commitments to reduce barriers in specific industries like chemical manufacturing.

"Progress has been limited.

"So, how are you pushing trading partners to follow through on industry-specific commitments and open their markets to our manufacturers across the board?"

On Wyoming Sheep Industry:

"Let me finish with this question on the Wyoming sheep industry.

"The sheep industry has been part of our ranching heritage for longer than we've actually been a state.

"And, earlier this year, I raised concerns with your office about surging lamb imports and the strains that they're putting on Wyoming's sheep industry.

"Family-owned operations that have sustained rural communities in Wyoming for generations are now fighting to survive.

"So, I want to thank you for directing the International Trade Commission to investigate whether these imports are harming our domestic industry.

"And, our producers deserve, I believe, a fair chance to compete in their own market.

"So, can you speak to how this investigation is expected to unfold? And, what you expect going forward?"

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