According to a Reuters report, on the 19th local time, the American Soybean Association (ASA) called on the U.S. government to reach an agreement with China to eliminate tariffs and, if possible, facilitate a deal for China to significantly purchase U.S. soybeans, in an open letter to President Trump. The letter warned that if China continues to avoid U.S. soybeans, it would bring severe and long-term economic consequences to American agriculture.
The report stated that due to trade tensions between China and the U.S. and the fact that a new trade agreement is still under negotiation, China is accelerating its shift to purchasing soybeans from countries like Brazil. Currently, China has not pre-ordered the new season of U.S. soybeans soon to be harvested, an unusual delay that has traders and growers deeply concerned.
In the letter, the ASA pointed out that soybean prices continue to fall, while farmers’ investments in production materials and equipment have significantly increased, placing growers under considerable financial pressure. The association emphasized that American farmers cannot long endure the trade dispute with their largest customer, China.
Bloomberg cited an analysis by the ASA indicating that in previous years, before the harvest began, China’s purchases of U.S. soybeans accounted for an average of 14% of its estimated total imports from the U.S. However, U.S. exports to other countries are insufficient to fill the gap. ASA President Randy Gordon warned that tariffs are undermining the international competitiveness of U.S. soybeans. He urged Trump to prioritize soybeans in negotiations with China; otherwise, losses would become more severe as autumn approaches.
Data show that in the 2023-2024 sales year, China purchased 54% of U.S. soybean exports, totaling $13.2 billion. However, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics, China’s imports of U.S. soybeans in the first half of 2025 decreased by 39% year-on-year.
The White House responded by stating that Trump is deeply concerned about farmers’ interests and will continue to expand markets to create a level playing field for American farmers. On the 11th of this month, Trump posted on Truth Social, urging China to triple its soybean purchases, which briefly drove up soybean prices. However, farmers widely doubt whether this goal can be achieved.
Post time: Aug-21-2025