Hundreds of women agribusiness leaders gathered in Orlando this week with a shared purpose: to celebrate progress, elevate voices, and confront a looming challenge for American agriculture. As the U.S. prepares to impose new port fees on Chinese-built and operated vessels starting October 14, questions about their implementation and impact on the agricultural supply chain took center stage.

The fees-part of a broader trade policy shift-are already affecting freight markets, with rising shipping premiums raising concerns that U.S. producers may bear the brunt of the cost. According to Alejandra Castillo, CEO of the North American Export Grain Association, a lack of clarity around how the fees will be applied is creating turbulence for exporters, particularly in bulk commodities like sorghum, soybeans, and corn.

"We're already seeing freight costs increase," Castillo said. "That impacts our ability to forecast sales and secure vessels. There's real concern this will reach all the way to the farm gate."

The uncertainty revolves around which ships will be affected. Vessels owned, operated, or built in China are targeted, but exemptions exist for smaller ships and those under certain tonnage thresholds. Castillo emphasized that larger vessels like Councilor Maxes may fall outside exemptions, leading to higher fees. The status of empty or in-ballast ships also remains unclear, further complicating logistics planning.

The potential impact on export competitiveness is significant. Over 50% of U.S. agricultural exports travel by ocean vessel, many on ships that could be subject to the new levies. Without clear guidance, exporters are left to guess, creating volatility in pricing and planning.

The ripple effects of trade policy were also a key theme throughout the Women in Agribusiness Summit. From discussions on sustainability and consumer trends to reflections on leadership and advocacy, attendees highlighted the importance of engaging in policy conversations.

Sara Neagu-Reed, who received the prestigious Demeter Award of Excellence, spoke about her journey from a childhood in urban Oakland to working on agricultural policy in Washington, D.C. Her family's history as farmers in Romania shaped her passion for organic production and farm labor reform.

"It's easy to feel like we're not making big wins," Neagu-Reed said. "But progress happens in the background. It's about building relationships and advocating consistently."

She urged producers to stay engaged by contacting lawmakers, joining trade associations, and inviting policymakers to their farms. "Sometimes just signing a letter or making a call can move the needle," she added.

The summit also explored the evolving relationship between food producers and consumers. Polly Ruhland, senior managing director at FTI Consulting, described a growing alignment of interests: consumers want transparency, and farmers want to tell their story.

"Consumers are more informed than ever," Ruhland said. "And farmers have more tools to connect with them. The future of agriculture depends on building that relationship."

Still, the challenges remain. With input costs rising and uncertainty around regulations like the port fees, producers are adapting. Maria McWhorter of Kynetec noted that while farmers face a tough economic climate, many are investing in precision agriculture, biological inputs, and technology to drive efficiency.

"Farmers are playing the long game," she said. "They're optimistic, but they need flexibility and clarity from partners and policymakers."

As the October 14 deadline nears, ag leaders agree that without better guidance, the port fees could erode margins across the supply chain. The Women in Agribusiness Summit served as a reminder that policy and markets are inseparable, and that today's complex challenges demand informed, unified advocacy.