United States of America president-elect Donald Trump has selected a potential protectionist firebrand in Brooke Rollins to enact his agriculture policies under his America First platform.

Rollins, who is the president of the American First Policy Institute, has been nominated by Trump to serve as the secretary of the US Department of Agriculture, one of the most politically sensitive portfolios for trade, social, and political strategy.

Rollins is no stranger to the White House, having led the White House Domestic Policy Council in Trump’s first term. She’ll be tasked with strengthen American farmers which is expected to be through tariffs on a wide array of imported goods.

For Australian agriculture, this appointment could have significant implications. Trump has not shied away from his goal of installing protectionist trade policies, including tariffs and renegotiation of trade agreements, to prioritise domestic industries. Such measures can disrupt global trade dynamics, potentially affecting Australian agricultural exports.

“With approximately 65-75 per cent of Australian grain exported annually, the sector is heavily exposed to international trade dynamics, with external shocks and events beyond its control,” GrainGrowers chief executive Shona Gawel told The Australian in October 2024.

Australian grain producers, for instance, have previously expressed concerns over U.S. protectionist trends. A report by GrainGrowers highlighted that increased U.S. tariffs could lead to decreased trade liberalization and escalated tensions, particularly between the U.S. and China, which may indirectly impact Australian exports.

Furthermore, U.S. policies promoting biofuels and subsidies for American farmers could affect global commodity prices, influencing the competitiveness of Australian produce in international markets.