WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S. — Export Exchange 2014 will host international trade teams from more than 30 countries on Oct. 20 to 22 at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel, Seattle, Washington, U.S., including key buyers and end-users from Japan, the largest export market for U.S. corn.

Comprised of corn millers, compound feed millers and traders, the Japanese trade teams’ goal for attending the bi-annual conference is to learn more about U.S. coarse grains and co-products while building strong relationships with U.S. suppliers. 

“The presence of major U.S. coarse grain suppliers and agribusinesses will provide the Japanese opportunities to expand their business relationships with U.S. sellers,” said Tommy Hamamoto, U.S. Grains Council director in Japan. “Personal relationships between the Japanese buyers and U.S. grain merchandisers are a vital ingredient to build business in this important market. Export Exchange will allow for these business relationships to grow.”
In addition, the Japanese participants are very interested in receiving the latest information about the 2014 U.S. corn crop as well as developments in the U.S. barley, sorghum and corn co-product sectors, which will impact their trading relationships with U.S. suppliers and agribusinesses in 2015. 

Japan is a key market for U.S. coarse grains and co-product exports. From Sept. 1, 2013, until Aug. 28, 2014, Japan imported more U.S. corn than any other market at 11.7 million tonnes (460.6 million bushels). The country is also a significant importer of U.S. distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS), barley and sorghum.

Export Exchange is an international trade conference focused on the export of U.S. coarse grains and ethanol co-products, co-sponsored by the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA). Approximately 300 U.S. suppliers and agribusiness representatives as well as more than 180 international buyers are expected to attend the 2014 event.

The last Export Exchange, held in 2012, broke records in attendance and attracted buying teams from 33 countries, including all of the top U.S. international coarse grains and ethanol co-products markets. Attendance at this year’s event is expected to set a new record, creating more opportunities for U.S. merchandisers to connect with buyers and build business.

Visit www.exportexchange.org to register and find more information.