Ag Industry Trends & Outlooks

This month’s Knowledge Exchange Partner article explores how shifting consumer trends, demographic changes, and regional growth are reshaping the U.S. wine industry. While overall demand remains flat and competition intensifies, emerging opportunities in direct-to-consumer sales and East Coast winery expansion offer paths for resilience. Adaptability and innovation will be key as producers navigate evolving markets. Contributed by Andrew Adams, WineBusiness Analytics.

This month's Knowledge Exchange Partner article highlights how record harvests, shifting trade relations, and evolving biofuel policies are shaping U.S. agriculture. Despite low prices, strong exports and renewable fuel demand offer hope for market stability in 2026. Contributed by Tanner Ehmke, CoBank lead economist grain & oilseeds, and Jacqui Fatka, CoBank lead economist farm supply & biofuels.

Autumn ushers in a season of outdoor agritourism activities across the Northeast — from hayrides to fruit picking. These activities come with a measure of risk, and understanding liability is crucial. In this month's Knowledge Exchange Partner, contributors Charles F. Gfeller and Anna-Kate M. Munsey of Gfeller Laurie LLP, examine the types of agritourism liability laws enacted by Northeast state.

With all the news of tariffs and trade disputes between the United States and its business partners around the world, it might not seem like an ideal time to explore export opportunities. However, recent and ongoing negotiations may actually open new markets for U.S. exports. This month's Knowledge Exchange Partner highlights Food Export-Northeast, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping U.S. suppliers— particularly small- and medium-sized companies—expand their international reach.