See the latest on standards related to front-mounted equipment, post hole diggers, and front loaders.

Congress last week passed legislation aimed at increasing the debt cap covered by a farmer facing bankruptcy. U.S. farm debt now totals more than $400 billion, the highest level since the 1980s farm crisis, and bankruptcies are on the rise.

Data from a council in Canada shows that farmers across the Canadian ag industry lost $2.9 billion in sales due to unfilled vacancies. That is an increase of $1.5 billion since 2014.

Sales decreased by about 36 percent compared to the same quarter last year. The company’s CEO said political and macroeconomic issues are affecting the industry.

U.S. Rep. Mike Conaway, a well-regarded figure on Capitol Hill and chairman of the House Ag Committee, is retiring.

The Mexican government is threatening to dramatically increase border inspections of U.S. farm goods unless the Commerce Department backs down on its proposal to ramp up inspections of tomatoes from Mexico.

A Canadian network aimed at developing exportable farming solutions has received an investment of up to $49.5 million. The project seeks to reduce reliance on temporary labor, increase global competitiveness, and improve profitability for farmers.

John Deere has agreed to a deal with the government of Zimbabwe to sell the country 1,300 farm tractors valued at about $50 million. The tractors will be distributed to farmers on loan.

Agrisolutions has signed a definitive agreement to acquire U.S. Manufacturing.

The primary purpose of the fall convention is to foster relationships between manufacturers and marketers and tap into new sales channels. Those opportunities present themselves in a few ways. Take a look at what’s in store.

Writer and speaker Steve Keating says he doesn’t want salespeople to love their products; he wants them to love their customers.

The White House has divvied up another $100 million in trade promotion funding. Big winners include the American Soybean Association and the U.S. Meat Export Federation.

U.S. and Japanese officials are furiously negotiating a limited trade deal focused on agriculture. Reaching an agreement is a priority for U.S. farm groups, who fear they’re losing ground now that the new 11-nation Pacific trade pact is in effect.

U.S. manufacturers are shifting production to countries outside of China. The moves add up to a reordering of global manufacturing supply chains.

The federal Family and Medical Leave Act often leads to questions: What counts and what doesn’t? How can we make sure we are in compliance? Does it cover cruises?
Wait, what?

A House bill introduced last week would direct OSHA to adopt a standard to prevent occupational exposure to excessive heat in both indoor and outdoor environments.

Valmont Industries has promoted Renee L. Campbell to vice president of investor relations and corporate communications.