The founder of Kennedy Rice Mills emerged as an influential policy voice during a Monday White House meeting with President Trump. Meryl Kennedy’s presentation on rice market conditions directly shaped the president’s decision to consider tariffs on Indian imports.
Kennedy, who also founded 4 Sisters Rice, provided Trump with industry perspective on competitive challenges facing American producers. She explained how imports from countries with structural cost advantages have created unsustainable pricing dynamics in domestic markets.
Trump responded to Kennedy’s briefing by questioning why India, Thailand, and China face limited restrictions on rice exports. The president asked Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent directly whether India benefits from exemptions that allow market access despite dumping concerns.
When Bessent mentioned that trade negotiations with India are ongoing, Trump rejected the implication that enforcement should await diplomatic resolution. The president promised immediate action, demonstrating how industry advocacy can directly influence executive branch decision-making.
Trump also indicated interest in restricting Canadian fertilizer, expanding his trade enforcement agenda beyond rice. The president’s responsiveness to Kennedy’s concerns illustrates the access that industry leaders can gain to presidential policy-making processes.
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