Trade disruption and geopolitical uncertainty dominated discussions at the 14th annual Women in Agribusiness Summit last month, where experts warned of a potential crisis for U.S. farmers facing unprecedented market challenges.
With more than 700 attendees representing over 200 companies, the summit addressed China's complete absence of U.S. soybean orders for the 2025-26 marketing year — the first such occurrence in 26 years.
"Typically, by Sept. 11, China would buy about 30% of its annual purchases of U.S. soybeans and by the end of October, that number is usually at 60%," said Karen Braun, chief market analyst with Zaner Ag Hedge.
Emily French, CEO of Global Ag Protein, issued a "red alert" for global agricultural trade, citing geopolitical uncertainty, questionable trade negotiations and volatile government mandates.
A panel featuring representatives from major agricultural organizations examined the implications for American farmers who face low prices, lost orders and high production costs.
"We are facing a very real farm crisis in our rural communities," said Sara Wyant, founder of Agri-Pulse and panel moderator.
The summit also explored growth opportunities in biologicals and sustainable aviation fuel, with experts projecting double-digit growth for biologicals by 2040 and highlighting farmers' role in producing feedstocks for aviation decarbonization.
The 2026 WIA Summit is scheduled for September 22-24 in New Orleans.
