Amid rising speculation and misleading headlines, John Deere has issued a firm clarification: the company is not shutting down its U.S. manufacturing operations.
In a statement posted to its official website, the agricultural machinery giant emphasized its long-term commitment to American production, countering viral claims triggered by a recent MSN article.
“Let’s clear the air. John Deere is not shutting down U.S. manufacturing. In fact, it’s quite the opposite,” the company stated. Deere also reiterated its pledge to invest $20 billion into U.S. manufacturing over the next 10 years, a move aimed at bolstering innovation and maintaining cost competitiveness globally.
The confusion stemmed from a headline claiming an “unprecedented shutdown,” which implied Deere was abandoning its U.S. roots. In reality, the company has temporarily closed some plants and implemented layoffs in response to a weakened farm economy and declining equipment orders. Deere confirmed to the Des Moines Register that these layoffs are not related to outsourcing production.
So far in 2025, nearly 400 workers have been laid off, with the company maintaining that the cuts are a result of shifting demand, not a strategic pullback from U.S. manufacturing. On social media, Deere continues to respond directly to public concerns, doubling down on its investment promise and clarifying the reasoning behind recent operational changes.
While John Deere is indeed expanding manufacturing capabilities outside the U.S. — including a new facility in Ramos, Mexico, which will produce mid-frame skid steer and compact track loaders — the company insists this is part of a global growth strategy, not a departure from its American manufacturing base.
CEO John May summarized Deere’s stance, saying: “This underscores our dedication to innovation and growth while staying cost-competitive in a global market.”