02/15/2026
Thune, Smith Introduce Legislation to Support U.S. Honey Producers
WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) introduced the Trade Cheating Restitution Act of 2025 on Dec. 17, 2025, legislation that would support American honey producers and producers of other commodities, like crawfish, garlic, and mushrooms, who have been harmed by unfair trade practices, primarily by China. Specifically, the bill would direct U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to distribute interest realized on certain anti-dumping and countervailing duties since 2000 to qualifying U.S. producers harmed by decades of trade distortions that continue to undercut these domestic industries.
The legislation is co-sponsored by Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), and Bill Cassidy (R-La.).
“South Dakota is one of the top honey-producing states in the country,” said Thune. “The unfair practice of circumventing U.S. trade laws, which jeopardizes honey producers’ financial security, should be met with strict enforcement and increased protections. South Dakota honey producers deserve a level playing field. This bipartisan legislation helps ensure fair treatment for affected domestic producers and strengthens their ability to compete globally.”
“Minnesota farmers produce some of the highest quality honey in the world, and they shouldn’t be unfairly harmed because China doesn’t play by the rules and engages in illegal dumping,” said Smith. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan bill to give Minnesota apiaries the relief they are owed so they can remain competitive and strong for years to come.”
To continue reading, please visit: https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=2B4B7642-50D6-4C07-947F-2F0ED6F03989
