BEIJING: Multiple agriculture industry leaders from the United States have recently emphasized the importance of cooperation with China, anticipating that strengthened bilateral ties in agriculture will benefit global trade and sustainable development. They shared their views at the U.S.-China Agricultural Trade Cooperation Forum, held as part of the ongoing seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE), which runs from Nov. 5 to 10.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Jim Sutter, CEO of the U.S. Soybean Export Council, highlighted the critical importance of the relationship with China, describing it as a key trading partner. Sutter emphasized the long-term collaboration between U.S. Soy and China, acknowledging China’s role in promoting trade and appreciating forums like the CIIE that focus on trade. The CIIE, known for being the world’s first national-level expo focused on imports, has provided a platform for U.S. food and agriculture companies to explore the Chinese market. This year, the U.S. section at
the expo attracted 14 participants and achieved a turnover of 600 million U.S. dollars within the first hour of operation, as reported by the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai (AmCham Shanghai).
Allisa Lau, China Director of Cotton Council International, discussed the longstanding ties between the Chinese and American cotton industries, underscoring their interdependent and mutually beneficial relationship. The forum highlighted that, despite global challenges, China-U.S. agricultural cooperation remains advantageous for both countries in pursuing sustainable development.
Janna Fritz, Vice-Chair of the U.S. Soybean Export Council, referred to the robust China-U.S. relationship in the soybean industry as a “beacon of hope and strength” for global agriculture. She noted China’s demand for sustainable, high-quality crops and the role of U.S. soy farmers in helping meet China’s sustainability goals. Steve Reinhard, Chair of the United Soybean Board, expressed optimism about the cooperation potential, poi
nting out that China’s high-quality development aligns with the sustainability commitments of U.S. partners.
The CIIE has facilitated connections between U.S. agriculture firms and Chinese partners, with U.S. companies continuing to secure orders even after past participation. The cumulative turnover from these orders has reached 3 billion dollars, according to AmCham Shanghai. At the expo’s opening ceremony, Chinese Premier Li Qiang reiterated China’s commitment to transforming its market into global opportunities and expanding market access.
Ryan LeGrand, president and CEO for the U.S. Grains Council, described agricultural trade as a “bright spot” in the complex U.S.-China relationship. He emphasized that while ideological differences may limit relations, trade sets a foundation, with agricultural trade playing a crucial role in maintaining this foundation. “When trade works, the world wins,” LeGrand stated, emphasizing the positive impact of the U.S.-China relationship on global trade.
