The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has released its spend plans outlining the specific inland waterways projects that were allocated funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Infrastructure Package). A significant priority for soybean and grain farmers was the $732 million designated to complete the design and construction of the Lock and Dam 25.

In this multi-part series, we will identify key points will range from a consistent supply to obtaining a quality product to sustainability for an Illinois soybean farmer who is selling their product to international buyers that specifically desire U.S. soy.

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.