Corn and sorghum growers from various states in the U.S. are currently in Southeast Asia as part of the U.S. Grains Council(USGC)’s annual Grain Export Mission. The mission aims to foster the next generation of U.S. agricultural leaders while showcasing the Council's efforts to develop markets, facilitate trade, and enhance lives.
Dylan Rosier, USGC Western Hemisphere Advisory Team leader and member of Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, emphasized the importance of such missions in growing export markets, especially in Southeast Asia. Rosier noted that the Council's work enables local farmers to focus on their crops, knowing that the Council is actively expanding markets on their behalf.
Grain Export Mission participants, representing USGC members from Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, and North Dakota, are currently in Vietnam and Thailand. During their visit, they engage with key end-users, Council partners, and trading company representatives to understand the market for U.S. grain and co-products in the region. The mission also provides insights into the Council's activities in developing Southeast Asian markets and a deeper understanding of local conditions, trade opportunities, and constraints.
Ellen Zimmerman, USGC director of industry relations, highlighted the program's value in allowing new delegates to witness firsthand the work they support and gain an understanding of the global impact of the programs, projects, and people associated with the USGC.
The participants had the opportunity to share insights with foreign buyers about producing coarse grains in the U.S. During a seminar in Ho Chi Minh City, they presented the latest corn and sorghum harvest quality reports, discussed opportunities for coarse grains and co-products, and addressed barriers to increased demand.
For the 2022/2023 marketing year, Vietnam ranked as the ninth largest market for U.S. grains in all forms (GIAF), the third largest market for U.S. distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS), and the ninth largest market for U.S. poultry and poultry products. Thailand was the ninth largest market for U.S. corn gluten feed and meal and the 11th largest market for U.S. DDGS during the same period, indicating a robust demand for U.S. products with room for further growth.
Zimmerman anticipates that as the participants conclude their week in Southeast Asia, they will reflect on their learnings and continue engaging with the Council in the years to come.
