2015 U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange Focuses On Minnesota Soybeans

Sep 15, 2015

From machinefinder News

Minnesota is one of the top soybean producing states in the U.S.

Minnesota is one of the top soybean producing states in the U.S.

Between Sept. 9 and 11, more than 200 international soy buyers congregated in Minneapolis, Minn., for the U.S. Soybean Export Council and Midwest Shippers Association’s third annual U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange.

At the event, attendees heard from speakers including NRCS Official Tom Coffman and Mark Wehe of South Central College. Topics addressed included soybean production sustainability, finances and shipping effects on soy protein quality. Regions represented at the exchange included Japan, India, North Africa and Pakistan.

“The Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council has made connections with buyers from all over the world,” said Paul Simonsen, soybean farmer and MSRPC board member, prior to the event. “This conference allows us to all meet in one centralized location and continue our conversations and relationship building. Minnesota is fortunate enough to be the host this year.”

The exchange began with a full day of networking for international buyers and soybean companies. At the conclusion of the event, attendees had an opportunity to visit a soybean farm in southern Minnesota.

“I appreciate the openness of the international buyers and their ability to explain what they are looking for in our soybeans and soy products,” said Minnesota Soybean Growers Association President Paul Freeman. “It is important for us as farmers to understand their standpoint.”

In an acreage report published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agriculture Statistics Service on June 30, statistics showed that U.S. soybean growers were headed toward another record year with 85.1 million acres planted. Minnesota was among the states that realized record-high planting.

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