A Warm Welcome to International VisitorsBuilding new markets for Minnesota-grown soybeans is a task that requires more than just a good crop; it demands personal connections. This week, Joel Schreurs, a dedicated Minnesota farmer, opened his farm to a group of soybean buyers from Southeast Asia, forging international relationships one conversation at a time.A Comprehensive Crop TourIn collaboration with the Northern Soy Marketing (NSM) Crop Tour, Schreurs hosted around 17 participants from Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand. These guests were taken on a journey through Minnesota and South Dakota’s agricultural heartlands, concluding their tour at the Port of Grays Harbor in Washington state. As stated in marshallindependent.com, the idea was to offer buyers an encompassing view from farm to port, understanding the entire supply chain of U.S. soybeans.Insights into the Soybean Supply ChainGlen Groth, NSM Chair, highlighted the purpose of the tour: “We see it as a service to our international customers.” The tour not only showcased pride in American agriculture but also demonstrated how the unique qualities of northern-grown soybeans could benefit international markets.Overcoming Challenges, Embracing OpportunitiesVisitors learned about the challenges facing soybean farmers, including steep increases in input costs like fertilizers. Yet, Schreurs emphasized the advantages of Minnesota soybeans, including a favorable amino acid profile and high sugar content. Such insights beat at the heart of fostering trust and interest among international buyers.Bridging Cultures with EducationThe tour wasn’t just for international visitors; it also included students from Russell-Tyler-Ruthton FFA. The interaction offered local youths firsthand exposure to the challenges and prospects of international markets, fostering a deeper understanding of agriculture’s global stage.Navigating International Trade DynamicsWith the shadow of the U.S.-China trade war, Schreurs underlined the importance of diversification in markets for sustainability. For Minnesota’s soybean farmers, building new connections in Southeast Asia could mean stability amidst global uncertainties.Minnesota’s approach showcases the power of personal relationships in agriculture, opening doors and building trust with international buyers—one handshake at a time. These engagements have emerged as vital components in the strategy to expand global awareness and demand for U.S. soybeans.