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China signals longer-term cuts to ag imports

China’s Ag Ministry says it plans to import fewer soybeans, pork, beef and dairy products in the next decade.

Naomi Blohm with Total Farm Marketing says that sends a clear message.

“They don’t have to do as much negotiations potentially with the United States in the future. I think it’s a little bit of a warning shot.”

Blohm tells Brownfield China has adapted better technology to improve their farming practices and reduce reliance on other countries, but they will still need to import soybeans, not necessarily from the United States.

Blohm says that will impact U.S. farmers.

“One good thing though is how much domestic demand for soybeans and soy products is improving in the United States, so it’s helping to offset our export losses.”

The U.S. and China are expected to meet to continue discussions on a trade deal in May, and there are questions as to whether China will buy more U.S. soybeans.