ODA, Ohio Ag Leaders Meet with Taiwan to Strengthen Agricultural Trade Partnerships

The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) in partnership with the Ohio Soybean Council and the Ohio Corn and Wheat Growers Association hosted the Taiwan Ministry of Agriculture to strengthen trade partnerships between Ohio and Taiwan.

Ohio's agricultural commodity leaders and members of the Taiwanese agriculture industry signed Letters of Intent outlining Taiwan's intended purchases of corn and soybean products from Ohio suppliers, valued at an estimated $6.4 billion in total.

"Trade is essential to Ohio agriculture, and it is critical to helping our farmers sell their products in the global marketplace," said ODA Director Brian Baldridge. "From grain and livestock to meat and timber, our farmers rely on strong export markets. Agreements like these with Taiwan ensure that Ohio products reach new customers, supporting farm families, and strengthening our rural economy."

The event signifies a step forward for the state's farm community and food industry as the agreements represent a shared commitment between Ohio and its partners to build strong relationships and open new markets for Ohio-grown goods.

"U.S. Soy has been developing our market for soybeans in Taiwan since 1969 through the American Soybean Association and US Soybean Export Council," said Bill Bayliss, Ohio Soybean Council chairman and Logan County soybean farmer. "I am honored to sign this MOU on behalf of Ohio's soybean farmers and continue to grow our trade relations with Taiwan."

"Today's signing is a win for Ohio corn growers," commented Craig Downing, Secretary of the Ohio Corn Checkoff. "Taiwan is a trusted partner, and this agreement highlights the global demand for the high-quality corn we produce right here in Ohio. This agreement will deliver lasting benefits for our farmers and rural communities."

Food and agriculture is Ohio's number one industry, adding $124 billion to the economy each year and providing Ohioans with 1 in 8 jobs. Ohio farmers grow or raise more than 200 different kinds of crops and livestock, and the state is also home to approximately 1,000 food processing companies.