US Soybean Farmers Call on Policymakers to Exclude Food from Trade War, According to Reuters

By Mei Mei Chu

SHANDONG, China (Reuters) – U.S. farmers are urging policymakers to keep food trade separate from geopolitical tensions with China, according to the American Soybean Association. There are growing fears that the escalating trade hostilities could further harm the already struggling agricultural trade between the two countries.

"I have gone to Washington D.C., Capitol Hill, and I talk to our legislators, our senators, and representatives, and I always emphasize that this is about food," stated Stan Born, Chair of Trade Policy and International Affairs Advocacy at the American Soybean Association. "This is one area that we should keep separate and clean and not use as a weapon."

He noted that the U.S. produces a surplus of agricultural products, while China faces a deficit, presenting an opportunity for mutual benefit.

Last month, President Joe Biden imposed significant tariffs on various Chinese goods, such as syringes and batteries, raising fears that this action could negatively impact U.S. agricultural exports to China. The Chinese government has pledged to retaliate, labeling the tariffs as "bullying."

Since the onset of the trade war during the Trump administration, the U.S. has seen a notable reduction in its market share in China, particularly in shipments of soybeans, sorghum, and pork.

During a recent agriculture cooperation roundtable in Shandong, American soybean and grain farmers expressed their commitment to engaging with Chinese buyers to strengthen trade relations. Adam Schindler, U.S. Grains Council Asia Advisory Team Leader, remarked, "This market is irreplaceable for us… there is no market like the China market. We want to ensure our customers know that we will continue to be here."

He added, "We want you (China) to know you are important to us; we appreciate you as U.S. farmers."

The United States relies heavily on China for its agricultural exports, but competition from cheaper supplies in Brazil and Argentina has constrained its market share.

Macey Mueller, Board Director of the United Sorghum Checkoff Programme, acknowledged China’s significance but stated that the organization is actively working to diversify markets and enhance trade opportunities.