As this year’s harvest approaches, coinciding with the beginning of the peak season for holiday shopping, the shipping crisis is in no better shape than it was last October when SSGA first shined a light on the subject. The only difference may be that more and more people are aware of the issue as shipping delays and supply chain disruptions have affected not just ag but products of all kinds, from furniture to bicycles to computer chips.

In a traditional year, Illinois soybean farmers host over 35 international trade teams on their farms. They experience the full agriculture affect, as learning the process doesn’t begin at the time of import.

Partnerships around the globe are helping farmers here at home, in Illinois

The Illinois Soybean Association is committed to discovering new markets worldwide to assist farmers in selling their harvested soybeans. In recent years, Egypt has become one of the fastest growing markets for soybean exports.

Illinois is the leading soybean producing state nationwide with about two-thirds of the soybeans grown in the state exported around the world. These soybeans must have a way of leaving the state, with rivers and trains playing a large role. Illinois is fortunate to have rivers, allowing farmers to expedite soybeans to other countries which is an economical advantage for Illinois farmers.

It takes a team to build preference for Illinois soy – a team that includes ISA farmer directors and ISA staff members working with WISHH and USSEC. Much is done behind the scenes to keep Illinois soy at the forefront.

Illinois doesn’t stand out on the global stage just because it is the number one soybean state in the nation. Illinois stands out for the unique advantages it, and its soybean farmers, offer.

Selling soybeans to buyers is more than just a handshake. It is a relationship that builds over time with the mutual understanding of the demand of the buyer and the need of the grower. The Illinois Soybean Association is continually working to increase relationships with international buyers to sell more Illinois soybeans.

In an effort to gauge farmer understanding and ultimately build relationships with international customers to impact farmer profitability, Illinois Soybean Association has just completed a trade & exports farmer survey.

Farmers and rural residents must engage with policymakers to push for these priorities and help raise awareness of the issues. Our collective voice is stronger and more likely to be heard.