In today’s volatile agricultural markets, Illinois soybean farmers face challenges that demand resilience and strategic action. Global competition, fluctuating demand and political dynamics can all create obstacles for soybean exports. Yet trade remains a cornerstone of the Illinois soybean economy. Farmers here produce nearly 600 million bushels of soybeans annually, with over half destined for export markets. During tough times, advocating for robust trade policies and promoting the value of Illinois soy can make a world of difference—not just for individual operations, but for the entire agricultural community.

The Importance of Trade and Exports
Global markets are crucial to Illinois soybean farmers’ success. Soybeans are in demand worldwide and serve as a vital ingredient in livestock feed, biofuels and human food products. Key trading partners, such as China, Mexico and Southeast Asian nations, provide reliable demand for U.S. soybeans and soybean meal. Without access to these markets, the economic pressure on local farms increases, with a ripple effect across rural communities.

Exports also create value for soybeans by connecting Illinois farmers with customers who depend on high-quality soy. In recent years, however, trade disputes and logistical challenges have highlighted the importance of strengthening existing trade relationships while seeking new opportunities.

Advocating for Trade
Soybean farmers are not just producers—they are a voice for an industry that feeds and fuels the world. Education can take many forms, including engaging in conversations with policymakers and participating in trade missions and farm visits that showcase the excellence of Illinois soy. Here are three ways farmers can strengthen their advocacy efforts:

1. Share Your Story: Share how trade impacts your farm’s success and your community’s well-being. If you are a farmer willing to share, the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) would love to hear from you! Each year, ISA hosts over 250 indivdual customer from around the world. We use these farm visits as an opportunity to share our story, explain how our soybeans get to their table and learn what their challenges are so we can improve our relationship. We would love for our farmers to host trade teams, write letters, participate in media interviews or use social media platforms to amplify their voices and educate others on the importance of trade.
2. Engage in Discussions: Joining organizations such as ISA offers farmers a platform to influence trade policy. By engaging with other trade organizations, farmers can contribute to conversations that shape international agreements and export priorities.
3. Support Infrastructure Improvements: Here in Illinois, 60 percent of our soy is exported, and a strong supply chain makes those exports move as efficiently as possible. ISA strongly supports investments in transportation such as railroads, river systems and port facilities to ensure Illinois soy reaches international buyers competitively. Farmers can collaborate with trade organizations and industry groups to prioritize these critical infrastructure projects.

Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Although tough markets test even the strongest farming operations, they also present opportunities for growth. Illinois soybean farmers can lean on their industry’s reputation for quality, consistency and innovation to stand out in global markets. By addressing sustainability concerns and producing soybeans with higher protein and better digestibility, Illinois farmers have the tools to meet evolving market demands. Illinois farmers should be proud of the standard they bring to the table from sustainability to protein to yields. Illinois is also situated in a great location for producing specialty soybeans. This includes soy that is food grade, non-GMO and more. I would recommend reaching out to your local grain buyer to understand premium priced options in your area.

Partnering for Success
Organizations such as ISA play a critical role in opening markets and supporting farmers through resources and advocacy. By connecting with such organizations, farmers can access programs that promote Illinois soy globally, including trade missions and marketing campaigns. Many of our strongest relationships with global partners have resulted from farm visits with customers or trade shows around the world. In one location, we can meet with customers from several of our top importing countries. From those conversations, we gain trust and share knowledge that leads to the purchase of Illinois soybeans. ISA offers guidance for soy users looking to buy from Illinois as well as for farmers looking to sell.

A Strong Future for Illinois Soy In challenging times, Illinois soybean farmers have always risen to the occasion, leveraging their innovation and tenacity to secure new opportunities. By advocating for trade and exports, they not only protect their livelihoods but also contribute to a stronger agricultural economy that benefits everyone.

Now more than ever, farmers must champion their role in the global supply chain and ensure that Illinois soy remains a staple in markets worldwide. Together, through promotion, engagement and innovation, Illinois soybean farmers can turn challenges into a thriving future.