2025 U.S.–China Agricultural Trade Cooperation Forum is held during the eighth China International Import Expo in Shanghai, Nov. 6, 2025. [Photo courtesy of the U.S. Soybean Export Council]

China and the United States of America reaffirmed their commitment to agricultural cooperation at the U.S.–China Agricultural Trade Cooperation Forum. The event was held Thursday in Shanghai alongside the eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE).

The forum brought together representatives from 14 major U.S. agricultural associations and their Chinese counterparts. Their discussions were orientated toward ways that can deepen current trade, enhance supply chain resilience and support global food security. 

Speakers from both nations called for greater collaboration in agricultural trade as a stabilizing force in bilateral relations. These talks were held amid ongoing economic uncertainty across the globe. 

"China remains a vital trading partner for U.S. soy and many other agricultural commodities," said Jim Sutter, CEO of U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC). "Agriculture has long served as a bridge for cooperation and mutual trust. Despite external challenges, we remain committed to advancing trade with openness and a win-win spirit."

Chen Chao, director general of the Department of American and Oceanian Affairs at China's Ministry of Commerce, said agricultural trade is a cornerstone of the broader U.S.–China economic relationship. "Built on complementary strengths and shared market opportunities, this cooperation delivers tangible benefits to both peoples," Chen said. "With vast potential ahead, deeper agricultural cooperation will contribute positively to global food security and shared prosperity." 

The forum drew participation from long-standing U.S. groups such as the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council, Almond Board of California, and Cotton Council International, alongside first-time attendees including the California Wine Institute, Ginseng Board of Wisconsin and the U.S. Livestock Genetics Export.

China is the world's largest soybean importer, with purchases reaching 105 million tons in 2024. The United States, one of the top global producers, continues to count China as its largest overseas soybean market. 

Andrew Moore, director of the American Soybean Association, said U.S. producers are ready to meet China's growing demand for sustainable, low-carbon agricultural products. "Together, we can deliver safe, affordable food for all and build a sustainable future founded on shared progress and trust," he said.

Cao Derong, president of China Chamber of Commerce of I/E of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-products (CFNA), reiterated China's commitment to openness and practical cooperation in agricultural trade. "As the world's two largest economies, a healthy and stable China–U.S. relationship benefits both nations and global stability," he said.

Mark Wilson, chairman of the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council, emphasized the people-to-people dimension of trade. "Though our two nations have different needs, we share the same hope for a brighter future," he said. "By working together, we can help more people enjoy better food and a better life."

The forum also featured a panel discussion, focusing on innovation, investment and sustainability in agriculture. Participants agreed that stable trade ties between the world's two largest agricultural markets remain essential for food security and economic growth.