In a recent announcement, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper joined other leaders to unveil the National Farm Security Action Plan. This initiative, led by the Trump Administration, aims to strengthen American agriculture’s role in national security and address threats from foreign adversaries.
Commissioner Harper expressed his support for the plan, emphasizing the importance of protecting American agriculture from countries like China. “China and other foreign adversaries are a very real threat to American agriculture, our nation’s food supply chain, and our national security,” said Harper. He also highlighted his efforts in banning China from purchasing Georgia farmland last session.
The United States Department of Agriculture outlined several key areas in the action plan. These include securing American farmland from foreign ownership, enhancing agricultural supply chain resilience, and protecting U.S. nutrition safety nets from fraud. The plan also focuses on defending agricultural research and innovation, safeguarding plant and animal health, and treating farms as critical infrastructure.
Recent years have seen increased Chinese investment in American agriculture, raising concerns about national security. Notable instances include China’s acquisition of Smithfield Foods and attempts to purchase farmland near military installations. In response, Georgia has banned foreign adversaries from buying farmland within its borders.
Commissioner Harper played a pivotal role in this legislation alongside the Georgia General Assembly.
