Illinois Soybean Association board member Scott Gaffner recently joined a delegation of U.S. agricultural leaders traveling to China to strengthen trade relationships and explore new opportunities for collaboration. Representing U.S. Soy, the group participated in the China International Import Expo (CIIE) and met with key officials, importers and industry partners eager to engage directly with American farmers.
The timing of this mission couldn’t have been better. Coming just days after a meeting between the U.S. and Chinese presidents signaled a renewed effort toward constructive engagement. The overall tone of the trade mission was one of optimism toward a stronger trade relationship.
“Chinese buyers and officials wanted to hear directly from farmers,” Gaffner shared. “They see value in U.S. soy and want a relationship that looks beyond short-term policy shifts. These are conversations about trust, consistency and partnership.”
In Beijing, the delegation met with Vice-Minister Li Changgang of China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and staff leadership from the U.S. Embassy. These discussions focused on improving market stability, enhancing transparency and strengthening long-term cooperation. The group also attended the Hongqiao Forum, where Premier Li Cheng spoke on China’s vision for open and collaborative global trade, an encouraging signal for U.S. agricultural exports.
Later in Shanghai, the team took part in a U.S.-China Agricultural Cooperation Forum and connected with importers and company representatives at the CIIE. For many, this was the first opportunity in years to meet face-to-face, discuss quality specifications and reaffirm shared priorities. Gaffner noted that Chinese companies expressed confidence in the quality and reliability of U.S. soybeans and welcomed discussion to improve market efficiencies.
The mission also underscored the importance of soybean checkoff investments in making these connections possible. Without farmer-led support, opportunities to speak directly with international buyers and policymakers would be far less accessible. These stakeholders want to put a face behind the product, so attendance provides open conversation to connect the supply chain from farm to fork.
Throughout the visit, the delegation was quite popular for media interviews. “China remains our number one export destination, and our history together goes back more than 40 years,” Gaffner said. “Trips like this remind us that relationships matter and they’re what drive lasting trade success.” He signaled the win-win scenario of open trade routes between the two countries.
As Illinois prepares to welcome global soy leaders for Soy Connext 2026, the groundwork laid by this mission will help ensure the state remains at the forefront of international trade conversations. From Beijing to Shanghai and back home to Illinois, the message is clear: The future of U.S.-China soybean trade depends on collaboration, transparency and the shared goal of feeding a growing world.
