By Andi Anderson
An Ohio farm recently hosted a trade team from the Philippines, aiming to strengthen agricultural trade relations. The visit was part of the Philippines Delegation Export Exchange, organized by Ohio Corn and Wheat, a statewide organization representing local corn and grain farmers.
The Philippines, with a growing population of over 119 million people, relies heavily on corn imports due to limited land space for domestic production.
The trade team visited the Leis family farm in rural Montgomery County to observe corn sustainability practices, marketing strategies, and the harvest process. The visitors also learned about the U.S. grain marketing system and how corn is processed for export.
Wendy Osborn, director of market development at Ohio Corn and Wheat, explained that the trade team focused on buying corn and dried distillers grains, particularly for the Philippines' poultry and pork industries.
The delegation was shown the export process, including how corn is loaded into containers and transported via rail systems and river ports for international shipping.
The Philippines, while producing some corn, cannot meet the demand for its population, which has doubled over the past 40 years. This makes trade with the U.S. vital for their agricultural sector.
Ohio, being a top corn-producing state in the U.S., plays a significant role in fulfilling the Philippines' import needs.
The trade team's visit not only highlighted the quality of U.S. corn but also underscored the importance of maintaining strong trade relations between the two nations.
By observing Ohio's efficient grain production and export systems, the Philippine delegation gained valuable insights to ensure a steady supply of animal feed for their agricultural sector.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Ohio, Business