By Andi Anderson
Virtual meetings are convenient, but nothing beats the power of personal interaction for building relationships and understanding markets. That's why American farmers like Mike Koehne and Tim Gauck recently embarked on a trade trip to Panama, immersing themselves in the world of US agricultural exports.
Koehne, a soybean farmer and former leader of the Indiana Soybean Alliance, emphasizes the importance of these in-person encounters. "Seeing firsthand how our investments translate into real demand for American crops is invaluable," he says. Organizations like the U.S. Soybean Export Council work tirelessly to promote US farm products in key markets, often with support from farmer checkoff programs.
Gauck, president of the Indiana Corn Marketing Council, witnessed the direct impact of promotional campaigns on Panamanian consumer choices. "Seeing American meat in high-end supermarkets and aquaculture facilities using US feed ingredients was incredibly gratifying," he shares.
The trip also highlighted the importance of quality. "While price matters, Panamanian buyers recognize the superior quality of US grain," Gauck adds. This reinforces the need for American farmers to maintain their commitment to excellence.
Trade trips are a vital tool for US agriculture. They provide essential insights, strengthen relationships, and ultimately pave the way for increased exports. If you're a farmer interested in learning more about these opportunities, reach out to your local farm organizations or checkoff programs.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-livingimages
Categories: Indiana, Business