The first of 19 trade teams taking part in Export Exchange 2016 have arrived in the United States for pre-tours before the conference in Detroit that will bring together international grain buyers and U.S. exporters next week.

The biennial event, sponsored by the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), offers an unparalleled opportunity for those interested in coarse grains to make connections and do business. More than 215 international buyers are scheduled to attend, along with an additional 250 or more U.S. participants.

In addition to networking opportunities, the conference will feature engaging speakers addressing critical issues facing U.S. agricultural exports, offering customers and sellers in attendance an increased awareness of the benefits of U.S. coarse grains and co-products.

General session speakers are scheduled to address global population and other trends affecting the grain business; grain and co-product supply and demand; U.S. transportation infrastructure; and the weather. The conference will also feature a panel discussion on distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) utilization between USGC consultants from North Africa and Southeast Asia.

Following the conference events, additional trade teams will visit the Midwest and major export terminals, with tours ongoing until early November.

News and updates from Export Exchange will be available at www.exportexchange.org and on social media, searchable using the hashtags #ExEx16 and #tradematters.

To receive conference updates, send an email to info (at) exportexchange.org.