By Justin Walker
Communications Specialist

U.S. agricultural equipment sales from January 2019 showed improvement on the previous year’s numbers, according to the latest information from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM).

Sales of self-propelled combines and 4-wheel drive tractors increased during the first month of 2019.

Data on U.S. 4-wheel drive tractor sales show gains of 38.2 percent in January compared to January 2018. Self-propelled combine sales also grew, increasing by 14.5 percent in the U.S.

Sales for 2-wheel drive tractors in January also increased, despite seeing declines in two areas. Under 40 HP 2-wheel drive tractors gained 13.3 percent in 2019, while 40-100 HP and 100-plus HP tractors decreased by 6.8 and 3.5 percent, respectively.

“For U.S. sales, our January numbers appear to be following a similar patter as year-end, with continued overall positive data despite a weak overall farm economy,” Curt Blades, AEM senior vice president of Ag Services, said.

Canada also saw increases in agricultural equipment sales. January 4-wheel tractor sales increased 7.8 percent, while self-propelled combine sales increased 31.1 percent. Although these areas improved, others saw significant declines.

Canadian sales of 2-wheel drive tractors dropped in all size categories. Under 40 HP dropped 14.6 percent, 40-100 HP dipped 26 percent and 100-plus decreased by 24.1 percent.

“One month doesn’t make a trend, but it is notable to watch,” Blades said.

AEM will continue to monitor sales, as continued market uncertainty and its impact on farmers’ business planning has raised concerns, he said.

“We remain committed to advocating for pro-growth trade policies and the end to retaliatory tariffs,” Blades said. “To keep the U.S. agriculture economy strong, we’re also urging for the swift implementation of the 2018 Farm Bill, expansion of rural broadband coverage and year-round sales of E-15 under the Renewable Fuel Standard to help provide some stability for farmers in the months ahead.”

Click here to see the full report, including U.S. and Canada breakdowns.