Event Generates More Than $166 Million in US Ag Sales

Based on written feedback from those in attendance, the Southeast Asia Grain Transportation Conference in Singapore in late April resulted in more than $166 million in U.S. agriculture product sales. Purchases were made by companies in Thailand, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore and Philippines.

The conference was organized jointly by the U.S. Grains Council and U.S. Soybean Export Council and was made pos­sible through Foreign Market Development (FMD) and Market Access Program (MAP) funding.

Developed to bring the latest industry and market information to importers in Southeast Asia, this year’s conference included more than 100 participants from 42 companies. Those in attendance represented seed processing companies, poultry and livestock integrators, feed and flour millers, soy food and beverage producers, regional and international trad­ing companies, shipping companies, ship chartering companies and port handlers. Presentations covered in-depth market analysis, while panel discussions provided opportunities to cover additional subjects. As with previous conferences, ocean transportation for agricultural products – both in bulk and in containers – was the main highlight.

A key objective of the Conference is to bring together prospective buyers and sellers in an environment that encourages networking and business discussions. U.S. exporters benefit significantly by being able to meet with major importers from throughout the region in one location.

U.S. Department of Agriculture investment via FMD and MAP funding is critical to the success of this and other pro­grams held in Southeast Asia and other regions.