Link Sharing: American Soybean Association Tariff Press Release

When policy decisions hit core stakeholder groups, communicators have a responsibility to amplify those voices and advocate for long-term business stability. In a direct press release statement, the American Soybean Association (ASA) captures how damaging tariffs can be for U.S. farmers. Their message—“Tariffs Are Not ‘Fun’ & Farmers Are Frustrated”—offers a case study in standing up for stakeholders, using plain language and economic logic to drive urgency and action.

📎 Tariffs Are Not 'Fun' & Farmers Are Frustrated

1. Use Direct Language to Convey Stakeholder Sentiment

ASA President Caleb Ragland stated, “Farmers are frustrated. Tariffs are not something to take lightly and 'have fun' with.” This straightforward expression captures the emotional and financial strain tariffs impose on farming communities.​

Takeaway for communicators: Employ clear and direct language to authentically represent stakeholder concerns, fostering trust and understanding among audiences.​

2. Highlight the Broader Economic Implications

The ASA underscores that tariffs not only affect individual farmers but also disrupt the broader rural economy and long-standing trade relationships. The organization notes that retaliatory tariffs from countries like China, Canada, and Mexico exacerbate these challenges.

Takeaway for communicators: Frame policy impacts within the larger economic context to illustrate the widespread consequences and garner broader support for your message.

3. Make the invisible risks visible

The ASA warns that policy decisions can quietly erode long-term trust and market position. Even when the financial impacts aren’t immediate, the reputational consequences—like becoming seen as an unreliable partner—can be difficult to reverse.

Takeaway for communicators: Help stakeholders see beyond short-term headlines. Use communication to spotlight longer-term risks to reputation, relationships, and reliability.

Go Deeper: Page Thought Leadership on Communicating Trade Challenges

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