A crew harvests corn near Galchutt in Richland County, Oct 15, 2025. (Photo: Rusty Halvorson/KFGO Ag News)
Federal lawmakers are intensifying scrutiny of foreign ownership of U.S. farmland, citing concerns about national security and control of the food supply. Recent discussions have focused particularly on investments tied to China, though officials note that foreign entities from several countries hold agricultural land across the United States.
Members of Congress are considering new restrictions and enhanced reporting requirements to improve transparency around land purchases. Supporters say tighter oversight is needed to protect strategic assets and rural communities. Agricultural economists caution that foreign ownership represents a relatively small share of total U.S. farmland but acknowledge the issue carries geopolitical significance.
Farm groups are also weighing the potential impact of new rules on land values and investment flows. The debate is expected to continue as lawmakers consider policy options alongside broader agricultural legislation.
NAFB news service
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