Pritzker declares March 19 Illinois Agriculture Trade Day

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., (KBSI) — Gov. J.B. Pritzker has declared March 19, 2025, as Illinois Agriculture Trade Day, recognizing the significant contribution agriculture trade makes to the state’s economy.

Illinois Agriculture Trade Day honors the state’s farmers, producers and related agricultural businesses for their role in feeding the world. The state’s agricultural producers are among the most productive globally, playing a vital role in food security.

Agriculture is Illinois’ top industry, with the state ranking No. 1 in soybean, pumpkin and horseradish production; No. 2 in corn; No. 4 in hog production; and No. 10 in wheat. Illinois is the largest total exporting state in the Midwest, with total agriculture exports estimated at $13.7 billion in 2023.

Pritzker noted in the declaration that “Illinois’ thriving agriculture sector provides jobs across our state, not just for farmers and ranchers, but for processors, scientists, shippers, trucking, and retailers.”