Jay Sjerven

Jay Sjerven is a former senior editor of markets at Sosland Publishing Company, where he covered agricultural commodity markets as well as legislation and regulations affecting the food industry. Jay also covered issues related to world trade in food, and food and nutrition assistance to those in the United States and abroad who require it.

Jay retired from Sosland in 2022 after 40 years with the company.

US continues to evaluate and enforce US-China Phase One trade agreement

Biden admin to address shortcomings in US-China trade commitments

10.08.2021

By Jay Sjerven

US Trade Representative Katherine Tai said while some commitments have been met, others must continue to be enforced.

USDA issues final rule for hemp processors in the US

USDA updates guidance for US hemp producers

01.25.2021

By Jay Sjerven

The final rule takes effect March 22, 2021, and includes guidance for testing, sample collection, and tribal regulatory authority.

Tom Vilsack is the former secretary of agriculture for the USDA and current president and chief execuive officer of the US Dairy Export Council. (Photo courtesy of the US Department of Agriculture)

President-elect Biden considers Vilsack for ag secretary position

12.14.2020

By Jay Sjerven

Tom Vilsack is the former secretary of agriculture for the USDA and current president and chief execuive officer of the US Dairy Export Council.

Pompeo said Chinese officials have reasserted their commitment to fulfilling their end of the new US-China trade deal

China must ramp up US food, ag purchases to meet phase one trade obligations

06.25.2020

By Jay Sjerven

The country has recommitted to purchasing $36.5 billion in food and agricultural products from the United States by the end of 2020.

Essential food safety and animal health inspections will continue amid shelter-in-place orders across the US

USDA to continue essential functions, including in shelter-in-residence areas

03.27.2020

By Jay Sjerven

These essential activities include food safety and animal inspection services that, if stopped, could impact food safety, animal welfare and public health.

US, Mexico and Canada cargo stacked before map of North America (©STOCKR - STOCK.ADOBE.COM)

USMCA negotiations under pressure

01.03.2019

By Jay Sjerven

The new North American trade deal to be reviewed by Congress amid threats from President Trump to pull out of NAFTA and uncertain support from a now Democrat-controlled House.