Crop and livestock markets are reacting positively to news of an initial trade agreement between the United States and China even though firm details on additional ag purchases remain scarce, Iowa State University crop markets specialist Chad Hart said last week.

“In the days following the an­nouncement, we have seen the markets perk up,” he said. “Even though we haven’t seen anything in writing yet, we continue to see announcements from both sides that indicate there’s a deal in place.” 

The extent of the gains will...