The Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal announced this week could be good news for farmers in the Midwest. The agreement is expected to give U.S. farmers easier access to markets in countries like Japan and Australia by reducing tariffs on many agricultural products. Harvest Public Media reports Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said yesterday that the deal could be worth billions for U.S. farmers. "This is an opportunity for the United States to continue expanding agricultural exports," Vilsack said. "This agreement will provide a more level playing field for American producers." But some critics, like the National Farmers Union, say the trade agreement will result in lower prices for many farmers.