By Caitlyn Abbey, ISA International Markets Manager
—
Members of the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) Market Development Committee, including Illinois soybean farmers Brady Holst, Scott Gaffner, Steve Pitstick and Dwayne Anderson, recently traveled to Beijing and Shanghai, China, alongside ISA staff to strengthen relationships with key soybean customers and government officials. Our delegation also attended the China International Import Expo (CIIE) to connect with additional buyers and stakeholders of U.S. soy.
The trade mission began in Beijing, where our group met with the American ambassador to China, representatives from China’s Ministry of Commerce and officials from the China National Cereals, Oils and Foodstuffs Corporation (COFCO International). These discussions provided valuable insight into the current trade environment and reinforced the importance of maintaining strong business relationships between U.S. soybean farmers and Chinese customers.
The following day featured a presentation from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) on China’s current food security strategy. We also toured Hopeful Crushing, one of China’s largest privately owned soybean processors and edible oil producers. Additional meetings were held with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and the China Chamber of Commerce of Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-Products (CFNA). The day concluded with the U.S.-China Agriculture Networking Reception, where attendees heard remarks from Greg May, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing.
Before departing Beijing for Shanghai, our group toured the CP Foods Layer Farm, a large-scale egg production facility that supplies more than 3 million eggs per day to the Beijing market. The visit offered a firsthand look at China’s livestock and feed sectors, which remain important consumers of soybean meal.
In Shanghai, ISA joined Indiana Soybean representatives for a meeting with Wilmar R&D, where both organizations highlighted investments in research exploring innovative uses for soy beyond traditional feed and oil applications. We also attended the opening day of CIIE and participated in a reception hosted by the Shanghai People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries.
The final day of the trade mission was spent at CIIE, meeting with customers and organizations involved in importing and utilizing U.S. soy throughout Asia. These conversations provided opportunities to strengthen existing partnerships and better understand the needs of international customers.
Overall, the trade mission was a valuable opportunity to build relationships, share the story of Illinois soybean production and reaffirm ISA’s commitment to serving global customers. Maintaining strong connections with key trading partners helps ensure continued demand for U.S. soy and creates long-term opportunities for Illinois soybean farmers.
