Soy Connext facilitates global dialogue

NEW YORK — In its second year, Soy Connext, the global U.S. Soy summit hosted by the U.S. Soybean Export Council, was held to discuss the global economy and the need for collaborative efforts among those who grow, sell, and choose U.S. Soy.

The more than 700 participants included international customers from 58 countries. Also in attendance were U.S. Soy farmers, related food and agriculture industry professionals, commodity exporters, and the Illinois Soybean Association’s Market Development Team.

The need for a nutritious, safe and affordable global food supply, economic viability for farmers, and sustainable solutions were recurring themes throughout the two-day conference.

The more than 500,000 U.S. soybean farmers are viewed as major contributors to ensuring people around the world have access to protein-rich, sustainably sourced nourishment.

Factors impacting the global economy such as international trade, supply chain challenges and innovations, and the need for global cooperation for mitigating climate change were also examined during conference presentations.

“If this year’s Soy Connext event has underscored anything, it’s that U.S. Soy is truly woven into the fabric of the global economy,” said Jim Sutter, USSEC CEO.

“U.S. soybean meal and oil exported to over 80 countries worldwide help provide nutrition security for a global population and demonstrate the tremendous impact of U.S. Soy farmers’ conservation practices, and U.S. Soy’s lowest carbon footprint around the world. With over half of the world’s food and beverage companies publicly committed to sustainable agriculture, the demand for U.S. Soy is poised for growth,” Sutter said.

At this year’s Soy Connext, participants heard engaging presentations on macroeconomics, the geopolitical climate, sustainability and supply chain innovations, while also diving into more sector-specific information, including soybean oil, soybean meal for livestock and poultry feed, soybean meal for aquaculture feed, and soy food and beverage production.

“At USSEC, we are dedicated to serving as a global connector,” said Stan Born, USSEC Board chair and Illinois soybean farmer.

“This year’s Soy Connext was a celebration of the vibrant history of global agriculture, and a look at the technological innovations of today and the future. This annual event is another way USSEC brings together important participants in the global soybean industry to maintain and grow global collaboration.”

The USSEC focuses on differentiating, elevating preference, and attaining market access for the use of U.S. soy for human consumption, aquaculture, and livestock feed in 80-plus countries internationally.

USSEC members represent the soy supply chain including U.S. Soy farmers, processors, commodity shippers, merchandisers, allied agribusinesses, and agricultural organizations.

USSEC is funded by the U.S. soybean checkoff, USDA Foreign Agricultural Service matching funds, and industry.