Kip Tom Recognizes IICA as Key Advocate for Agriculture in the Americas

In a recent address at the Second Meeting of Agricultural Federations of the Americas held at the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) headquarters in San José, Costa Rica, Ambassador Kip Tom, a prominent figure in agribusiness, emphasized the importance of IICA as a reliable advocate for the agricultural sector. As a member of a family deeply rooted in farming for eight generations, Tom's insights underscore the crucial role that agricultural development plays in the Americas.

Tom, who serves as Vice President of Rural Policy at the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), recognized IICA's pivotal role in empowering farmers and enhancing food systems while promoting autonomy away from global bureaucracies. During his remarks, he stated, "While others have penalized our farmers, it was IICA that stood up for them, acknowledging that farmers are the solution, not the problem."

The meeting brought together over twenty agricultural federations from across the continent, who engaged in discussions around vital challenges and strategic opportunities facing the sector. This collaborative dialogue aimed to build a shared vision for the future of agriculture in the Americas, reflecting on the outcomes of the initial forum that took place in July 2024.

José Francisco González, President of FECAGRO, the Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock of Costa Rica, Fernando Vargas, and IICA Director General Manuel Otero inaugurated the event. Otero reiterated the urgent need for a strategic defense of agriculture in the Americas to ensure global food security and environmental sustainability. "Collective construction is the way forward to defend what is vital for the planet and our countries," he affirmed.

As an expert at the intersection of agriculture and national security, Tom captivated the audience with his opening speech, addressing the necessity of formulating concrete proposals that enhance the competitiveness and leadership of the Americas in global food production. He articulated the essential role of IICA as a champion for agricultural interests, urging countries to join forces to elevate their competitiveness in international markets.

Focusing on regional solutions, Tom rejected monolithic production models that do not consider the unique agricultural characteristics and cultures of each nation. He praised Dr. Otero's leadership, stating, "I strongly support IICA because I have witnessed Dr. Otero's commitment to understanding that the continent possesses the natural resources to become the leading producer of food and energy."

Kip Tom’s perspective is grounded in his lifelong experience as a farmer in northern Indiana, where his family has cultivated land since 1837. Under his guidance, Tom Farms has evolved into one of the largest seed producers in the U.S. and a leading grain operation. Moreover, his ventures into agribusiness such as CereServ and GlobalAg have spurred innovations in food production and technology.

During his address at IICA, Tom emphasized the necessity of creating trade opportunities for farmers across the hemisphere, particularly focusing on the empowerment of the one billion people globally suffering from food insecurity. He called for an effort to reduce reliance on imported inputs critical for combating pests, diseases, and weeds, noting that many agricultural products currently used are sourced from outside the continent.

"This must change for our countries' economies to flourish," he stated. He urged countries to select their own production models based on their natural resources, infrastructure, knowledge development, and human capital. Tom expressed a strong disdain for non-tariff barriers that hinder agricultural imports, citing European policies as an example of external forces trying to impose regulations that do not align with the realities of each individual country.

Tom concluded his remarks by calling for increased regional cooperation to reduce reliance on external organizations and champion local agricultural solutions. He stated, "The United States welcomes the role of IICA and agricultural federations in supporting sustainable agriculture and regional food security. IICA is crucial for advancing policies that empower farmers, promote regional trade, and encourage investment in free agricultural innovation."

With a clear message of unity, he highlighted the Americas' capability to be self-sufficient in food production. From the cornfields of the United States to the coffee farms of Colombia and the ranches of Argentina, he reaffirmed the importance of breaking free from the limitations set by global institutions. Ultimately, Tom underscored that ensuring a plentiful, nutritious, and affordable food supply should remain the priority, effectively summarizing the sentiment of the attendees with the urgent need for a combined effort in the agricultural sector across the Americas.