More than half of the U.S. soybeans exported last year were imported by China. In recognition of this important relationship – a delegation of U.S. soybean farmers representing the United Soybean Board, American Soybean Association and U.S. Soybean Export Council plan to recognize the past three decades of developing the partnership. U.S. soybean farmers started laying the foundation for today’s strong trade relations with China in 1982. Since that time – USB Chair Vanessa Kummer says the U.S. has been devoted to helping China reach its food security and food safety goals. ASA President Steve Wellman says the partnership mutually benefits Chinese soy customers and U.S. soybean farmers. As this 30-year milestone is celebrated – USSEC Chairman Roy Bardole says soybean farmers look forward to further growth of this partnership and providing China with an exceptional product.

According to the United Soybean Board – the activities of U.S. soybean farmers to help expand Chinese agriculture and agribusiness have played a part in that nation’s increasing production of meat, poultry and fish products. They say the effort to modernize and develop China’s animal-agriculture industry contributes to its food security and supports the animal production goals outlined in China’s 12th Five-Year Plan.