Staff Reports
In a resolute move aimed at safeguarding American interests, the state of Arkansas has issued an order for a Chinese-owned company to relinquish a portion of agricultural land. This marks the inaugural enforcement action under new laws designed to restrict foreign ownership of farmland nationwide, finally reflecting a surge of common sense!
Attorney General Tim Griffin has taken the lead, mandating Northrup King Seed Co., a subsidiary of Syngenta Seeds owned by the Chinese state-owned firm ChemChina, to divest the property within two years. This legislation, championed by Arkansas' predominantly Republican Legislature and signed into law by Republican Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of conservatives to protect our great nation.
BREAKING: Arkansas becomes the first state in the nation to force a Chinese state-owned company to give up its American land. pic.twitter.com/tsBV2dwP6N
— Leading Report (@LeadingReport) October 17, 2023
During a press conference, Governor Sanders underscored the significance of safeguarding Arkansas and its industrious citizens. Any company seeking to operate on our soil must demonstrate their loyalty and commitment to America. It is high time someone stood up for our farmers and ensured that every company conducting business in Arkansas is a friend and ally. Governor Sanders and Attorney General Griffin deserve commendation for their dedication to the people of Arkansas.
Undoubtedly, the Chinese-owned Syngenta may express disappointment with this decision. However, it is worth noting that they have held this land since 1988 without any explicit directive from China. While they may disavow any malicious intent, we cannot risk the infiltration of our agricultural industry by foreign entities potentially exploiting American farmers. Arkansas is setting an exemplary standard for the rest of the nation to emulate.
The firm action taken by Arkansas mirrors the nationwide growing concern regarding foreign ownership of agricultural land. Before this year, only 14 states had regulations in place to curtail foreign ownership, but that number has surged to 24 states. Nearly three-quarters of states have contemplated legislation on this subject, with a particular focus on investments from countries like China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia. It is high time we prioritize American interests over foreign influence!
While critics may argue that states rarely enforce these laws, this paradigm is evidently shifting. Arkansas is at the forefront of this transformation, demonstrating unwavering resolve. The state even possesses the authority to litigate against companies that defy the law and refuse to divest their land. Although Attorney General Griffin has not disclosed any additional foreign-owned land that might be subject to such actions, it is heartening to witness this proactive approach to protect American sovereignty.
In addition to the land divestment, Syngenta has been penalized with a $280,000 fine for its failure to report its foreign ownership. This development should serve as a stark warning to all foreign companies: we demand complete transparency and adherence to American laws. Non-compliance will not go unpunished.
The surge in state laws restricting foreign land ownership has emerged as a pressing political issue, and rightly so. Cases of Chinese-affiliated entities acquiring property in proximity to military bases have raised genuine national security concerns. Even the trajectory of a suspected Chinese surveillance balloon across the United States has raised significant questions. The time has come to shield our land and ensure that only those with the best interests of America at heart are permitted to invest.
Arkansas deserves recognition for spearheading the endeavor to protect American farmland and promote national security. It is now time for other states to follow suit and demonstrate their unwavering commitment to defending our great nation against foreign interests. Let us continue to stand resolute and protect what is rightfully ours!
