How do Kansas farmers feel about the China soybean deal?

KANSAS (KSNT) - Late last month, China agreed to purchase 25 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans. We reached out to the Kansas Soybean Association to see how farmers feel about the deal.

We spoke to Kansas Soybean Association CEO Kaleb Little who said they are encouraged that American farmers and soybean producers were a priority in the negotiations between the U.S. and China.

"After months of uncertainty, this is a very positive development long-term for soybean farmers who have worked hard to build international markets for their products," Little said.

The trade war started in February when Trump imposed an additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods. That soared to as much as 145% after China retaliated, but Trump walked it back following market meltdowns. In the first eight months of the year, China bought 17 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans, but imported zero in September.

According to Little, China has historically purchased between 25 and 30 million metric tons of soybeans. He said the negotiations from last week laid the groundwork with the commitment to buy 12 million metric tons for the rest of this year and 25 million metric tons per year until 2028.

"China is the largest buyer of soybeans in the world," Little said. "We hope that the reduction in tariffs and the purchase commitments announced signal a return to normal trade relations for agricultural products like soybeans."

We asked if farmers are adjusting their plans after an uncertain year. Little said that having the largest export destination back on the table will help provide confidence in soybeans next year.

"As harvest wraps up this fall, farmers are making planting decisions for next spring now too," Little said. "Crop rotations, input prices, pest management, and markets all play a factor in that decision-making process."

Little said there are bigger issues than soybeans and agriculture at play with the U.S.-China relationship.

"We just want to make sure that we can keep access to that market for our farm products," Little said. "The news last week was a great first step. U.S. farmers are the best in the world at producing an abundant, affordable, safe, and sustainable product. We have a competitive advantage over most of the world, so we need to continue to keep international markets open to trade."

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