Ag Industry Trends & Outlooks

In this month’s Knowledge Exchange Partner article, Paul Jannke of Forest Economic Advisors, LLC delivers a compelling look at what’s ahead in the 2026 Forest Products Industry Outlook, spotlighting signs of momentum across lumber and pulp markets. Strengthening housing starts, steadier capacity, and gradual price gains point to an industry regaining its footing, even as long‑term structural pressures and shifting trade dynamics continue to shape the competitive landscape.

This year’s National Ag Day is Tuesday, March 18. And this year, we celebrate the important role Northeast agriculture, commercial fishing and forest products plays in our everyday lives. 

With reduced U.S. production, lower prices and trade implications, the potato industry might face several challenges in the year ahead. Farm Credit East recently hosted a webinar providing a review of 2024 potato production and industry insights for 2025. Following are the key takeaways from this webinar. 

The forest products industry is navigating a complex landscape in 2025. With the resumption of a 25% tariff on U.S. imports of Canadian goods, the market faces significant uncertainty. This article delves into the implications of these tariffs, the state of the North American housing market, and the forecast for softwood lumber consumption.