JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A delegation of Missouri soybean farmers and industry representatives recently traveled to Mexico and Panama to strengthen trade relationships, engage with agricultural leaders, and explore new market opportunities for Missouri-grown soybeans.
The Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council (MSMC) organized the trade mission in partnership with key industry stakeholders and the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC). The mission reinforced Mexico and Panama’s status as key partners in the U.S. soybean supply chain.
“Mexico remains a top customer for U.S. soy, and this mission allowed us to engage directly with buyers, processors, and feed industry leaders,” said Aaron Porter, MSMC past chair and demand committee chairman. “By understanding their needs and demonstrating the value of Missouri soybeans, we can continue building long-term partnerships that benefit both Missouri farmers and Mexican agribusiness.”
Missouri soybean farmers met with feed manufacturers, soybean processors, and industry leaders to discuss supply chain logistics, sustainability, and the importance of high-quality soybean meal. In Mexico, the delegation learned that 26 percent of one major soybean crush company’s imports come directly from Missouri, highlighting the state’s critical role in international trade.
In Panama, the team explored growth opportunities for U.S. soybeans, as the country imported 240,000 metric tons of soybean products in the marketing year 2023/24. With its strategic location and reliable transportation infrastructure, Panama serves as a key access point for global soybean exports.
“The Panama Canal plays a vital role in getting Missouri soybeans to international markets,” said Brad Arnold, MSMC director from Drexel. “In a typical year, the U.S. soybean industry moves 600 million bushels through the canal, making it a critical part of the global soybean supply chain.”
Missouri Soybeans continues to prioritize international market development to support farmer profitability and global trade partnerships. By fostering direct relationships with buyers and processors, Missouri farmers are securing long-term demand for their soybeans and reinforcing the state’s reputation as a trusted supplier.
“At the end of the day, everything we do comes back to supporting our farmers and ensuring they have strong, reliable soybean markets,” said Gary Wheeler, Missouri Soybeans CEO and executive director. “Mexico and Panama have been, and will continue to be, key partners for Missouri farmers, and we’re committed to building on that relationship for years to come.”
For more information on Missouri Soybeans’ global trade initiatives, visit mosoy.org.
Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council
The Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council is a statewide, farmer-led organization focused on improving opportunities for Missouri soybean farmers through a combination of research, outreach, education and market development efforts through the soybean checkoff. To learn more, explore mosoy.org.