Ukraine plantings to plummet: Ukraine may plant 7 million hectares (17 million acres) of spring crops this year, less than half of last year’s 15 million hectares, said the nation’s agriculture minister. (Reuters)
Brazil waives ethanol duties: In a step to reduce inflation, Brazil’s Ministry of Economy said it will waive tariffs of 18 percent on imported ethanol through the end of this year, creating an opening for U.S. ethanol. (Ethanol Producer)
Ocean shipping reform advances: On a voice vote, the Senate Commerce Committee approved a bill intended to speed up U.S. exports by barring ocean carriers from unreasonably refusing to accept U.S. cargo. (Transport Topics)
EPA is sued over cadmium: The Center for Biological Diversity sued the EPA in federal court, alleging it failed to consider the impact on endangered species when it set water quality limits for cadmium, found in phosphate fertilizers. (DTN/Progressive Farmer)
Estrada to lead Farmworker Justice: Ron Estrada, a vice president of UnidosUS before becoming a Univision executive, will serve as chief executive of Farmworker Justice, an advocacy group for farmworkers. (Farmworker Justice)