Importance of U.S. Grains and Bioproducts Council

For Illinois farmers, the work of the U.S. Grains and Bioproducts Council (USGBC) is essential to maintaining and expanding global demand for corn and corn co-products. Illinois consistently produces more corn than domestic markets can use, making foreign exports a critical market for farm profitability and agricultural economic stability.

Last week, the USGBC held its international Marketing Conference and Annual Membership Meeting in Panama City, bringing together farmers, industry leaders, and global partners to discuss emerging market opportunities and develop export strategies for the year ahead. The meetings provided updates on key trade regions, including Latin America and Asia, and allowed the Council members to speak directly with international USGBC employees to discuss their regions' marketplace.

“The U.S. Grains and Bioproducts Council is the promotion arm for U.S. farmers around the world—no one else is going to tell our story or advocate for our products the way we can,” said Mark Wilson, Chairman of USGBC and an Illinois corn farmer from Toulon. “With offices and partnerships across nine countries, we’re meeting directly with governments to show them the value of U.S. grains and bioproducts. We’re providing high-quality feed that helps livestock producers succeed, supporting cleaner air through renewable fuels, and ultimately improving lives. As U.S. farmers, we produce more than we can use at home, so these global relationships are essential—not just for our markets, but for helping families and communities around the world build better futures.”

By developing and strengthening relationships with international buyers, providing support, and advocating for science-based trade policies, the USGBC helps ensure Illinois remains competitive worldwide. Their efforts develop markets for feed grains, ethanol, and other coproducts to create reliable markets for Illinois corn farmers.

The USGBC develops export markets for U.S. barley, corn, and sorghum and related products, including distillers dried grains with soluble (DDGS) and ethanol. The Council has nine international offices, with representation in 30 countries and programming in more than 70 countries worldwide.

The USGBC’s mission is to:

• Develop markets
• Enable trade
• Improve lives

IL Corn is proud to be a partner of the USGBC, as their mission and efforts are improving the lives of Illinois corn farmers through reliable, growing international trade.