March 19, 2025 is formally recognized as Illinois Agriculture Trade Day. This special day recognizes the enormous role agriculture plays in state’s economy, farmers, and communities. Illinois Agriculture Trade Day is dedicated to Illinois’ farmers, producers and related agricultural businesses.
Illinois’ agricultural is particularly important: producers in the state are among the most productive in the world and play a vital role in food security both at home and abroad. As Illinois’ top industry, agriculture is a central driver of the economy, with the state ranking No. 1 in the production of soybeans, pumpkins and horseradish; No. 2 in corn; No. 4 in hogs and No. 10 in wheat.
Illinois is the largest total exporting state in the Midwest with total agriculture exports in 2023 estimated at $13.7 billion.
With those stats in mind, House Minority Leader Tony McCombie is encouraging residents throughout Illinois to celebrate Agriculture today!