The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) has launched a Pacific Northwest (PNW) Exploratory Mission to strengthen connections between U.S. Soy producers, exporters, and international buyers, highlighting the strategic role of PNW ports in global soybean trade. The initiative aims to boost demand for U.S. soybeans and soybean meal across Northeast, South, and Southeast Asia, regions experiencing rapid economic growth and a rising middle class.
“USSEC is responding proactively to evolving global trade patterns, offering diversified supply options and building confidence and continuity for international customers – even amid market uncertainty,” said Carlos Salinas, USSEC Executive Director for East Asia. “Our mission in the Pacific Northwest is to showcase the efficiency, reliability and sustainability of the U.S. Soy supply chain, and make those vital, face-to-face connections between exporters and buyers that build confidence and grow both immediate and long-term sales.”
In 2024, 21% of U.S. soybeans and soybean meal exports moved through the PNW’s 10 regional ports in Washington and Oregon, demonstrating the region’s critical role in connecting U.S. Soy to global markets. The four-day mission features market insight sessions, tours of regional ports and grain handling facilities, and one-on-one meetings between importers and exporters.
“Asia’s dynamic growth and increasing appetite for high-quality, sustainable protein create tremendous opportunity for U.S. Soy,” said Craig Pietig, USSEC Board Director and Vice President of Ag Products at AG Processing Inc. “Through the Pacific Northwest Exploratory Mission, USSEC is showcasing how world-class logistics and partnerships connect U.S. Soy producers directly with international buyers, making it easier than ever for Asia’s feed and food sectors to access reliable, sustainably grown soybeans and soybean meal.”
The PNW mission underscores the importance of face-to-face engagement in cultivating trust and long-term relationships, ensuring that U.S. soybean producers remain competitive in expanding Asian markets while strengthening the overall resilience of the U.S. Soy export network.
