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(Iowa) -- Iowa business leaders are optimistic about the economic outlook this year.
A new survey from the Iowa Business Council shows sales expectations for the next six months have reached their highest level in eight years.
Joe Murphy, IBC President, says the optimism is based on greater clarity surrounding interest rates and the hope that more trade deals will struck by the agriculture industry.
He adds they're also encouraged state lawmakers are negotiating property tax reform.
"Really both parties coming to the table and wanting to address this. We rank 33rd of the 50 states in competitiveness with our property tax system in Iowa. And that needs to be improved," said Murphy.
He says the top challenges facing Iowa businesses are the higher cost of products due to inflation as well as attracting and retaining a quality workforce.
The Iowa Business Council represents companies like Casey's, Deere & Company and UnityPoint Health.