News

Middle East opportunities for U.S. commodities

A grain buyer from Jordan says there’s an opportunity for U.S. commodities in the Middle East.              

George Khayyat operates Regional Food Processing and has been importing grains for four decades.

“For the last five years now, I’ve been importing U.S. soybeans.”  He says, “Actually, I’m the only one importing that in Jordan. We’re very happy with the quality. We see a bright future in the cooperation between Jordan and the U.S.”

He tells Brownfield that 70% of the grains imported into Jordan are used in finished feed on poultry farms.

“I would like to see more U.S. corn imports to the Middle East because usually now it’s mostly Argentina and Brazil.”  He says, “I think the U.S. has a better yield. It has a better energy intake, and it has a better test weight. So, I think if it’s imported correctly, and if it’s used correctly in the feed, there will be a big added value for the farmer.”

AUDIO: George Khayyat – Regional Food Processing

Khayyat is one of several grain buyers from the Middle East and Asia participating in the Illinois Grain Tour this week, gaining a firsthand look at Midwestern production practices.

Illinois Ag Director Jerry Costello says, “It’s extremely, extremely important to have these one-on-one visits and relationships.”

Costello says last year’s Illinois Grain Tour resulted in $159 million in agricultural sales for the state.

AUDIO: Jerry Costello – Illinois Department of Agriculture