He also said that the government would purchase other commodities if they reach the same surplus levels as wheat. Other countries may be added, said Glickman. Shipments likely won't begin for at least two months. USDA General Sales Manager Chris Goldthwait said the CCC will purchase a variety of wheat classes, depending on countries' needs.
Soft wheat is a shoe-in, hard wheat a possibility.
Some, too, are grumbling that USDA ignored EEP initiatives once again, which could have been used in combination with the CCC purchase to pack a real punch. On the other hand, stepping into EEP territory would have been touchy. Last week, Australian National Farmers Federation president Ian Donges wrote to both Clinton and the European Union sounding a warning against ag subsidies. John Anderson, Australia's Primary Industries Minister, said he would raise the issue of the aid with Glickman next month at a meeting in Australia. A sharp drop in wheat prices now could actually raise farm income over the rest of the year, Pro Farmer points out.