News

ASA leader cautiously optimistic about China trade

An American Soybean Association leader is cautiously optimistic about the recently-announced trade framework between the U.S. and China. ASA’s Vice President Scott Metzger says, “It’s all good in words, just if it all gets followed through.”

Metzger farms in Ohio and tells Brownfield President Trump’s announcement saying China would buy 12-million metric tons of U.S. soybeans might not happen since China is already in violation of the Phase One agreement and without a signed deal, there could be a catch. “If you read, the Devil is always in the details and looking at that, you know, if they can buy them from South America cheaper than what they can from us, then they can go that route, and currently right now with the runup in beans today, I would say that we were probably higher now than what they can get beans down there for the rally we had in the market today.”

Metzger says the good news is China agreed to cut retaliatory tariffs on U.S. soybeans, which helps the U.S. stay price competitive. “That was the one thing that was an issue before when the beans were, with that tariff on there, it really put us out of the market in comparison to what they could get in South America.”

Metzger says strong enforcement tools need to be available for any trade agreement with China.  He says U.S. farmers also need to know more details about potential Chinese purchases before they make their 2026 planting decisions.

AUDIO: Ohio farmer and ASA Vice President Scott Metzger discusses the recent China trade news with Brownfield’s Larry Lee.