News

China appetite for U.S. soybeans returns, but Minnesota grower remains concerned

The president of the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association is cautiously optimistic China will continue buying U.S. soybeans.

Ryan Mackenthun farms near Brownton and says China has been an active buyer despite ongoing trade disruptions.

“With the Section 301 tariffs, I just heard they bought (more) cargo loads. So they’re still buying so that makes me a little bit more happier that they’re still buying, but it’s definitely a concern.”

He tells Brownfield exports are critical to the success of U.S. soybean farmers.

“My local coop, we used to put it all on a truck and have to drive an hour all these beans that are delivered there to a processor. (now) We have a loop rail track at that elevator that is set up for export, so we need that market demand as well.”

While Chinese purchases of U.S. soybeans are well above a year ago, China is still short of its 25 million metric ton commitment for the current marketing year.