ARLINGTON, VA. — Lawmakers introduced legislation that would require the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to study the global supply chain market for US agricultural inputs for overreliance on China.

The inputs include essential vitamins, amino acids and other ingredients used in animal feed and pet food, among other agricultural inputs.

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) voiced support of the Securing American Agriculture Act, saying it has been calling for a close examination of China’s role in the US food and agriculture supply chain, given ongoing trade disputes and geopolitical tensions.

“Without good data, our nation’s leaders are essentially shooting in the dark, unable to determine where they can make meaningful impact — whether by boosting domestic production or securing alternative suppliers,” said Constance Cullman, president and chief executive officer of the AFIA. “Just like humans, animals require daily vitamins and amino acids for healthy growth and development or their wellbeing will suffer. By supporting the Securing American Agriculture Act, we can give federal decision-makers a clearer shot at guarding the United States from potentially catastrophic animal welfare, food or animal food security or economic consequences."

US manufacturers heavily rely on a single source — China — for key vitamins such as B1, B3, B8, B11, B12, C, D3 and K3. The AFIA has been advocating for the US government to take a multifaceted trade approach that balances economic interests, while seeking new foreign suppliers or incentivizing domestic research and production, to ensure resilience in both the animal food and farm sectors.

Cullman addressed supply chain concerns in an interview with sister publication World Grain during the 2025 International Production & Processing Expo in January.

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