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The Ohio Soybean Council (OSC), in partnership with the U.S. Soybean Export Council and supported by farmer checkoff investments, recently led a trade mission to Japan and Vietnam to strengthen relationships, expand markets, and highlight the global impact of Ohio-grown soybeans. The delegation included OSC farmer-leaders, staff, and Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Brian Baldridge.

Japan remains one of the most established markets for U.S. soybeans and the largest buyer of food-grade soybeans globally. During the visit, the delegation met with government officials, global trading partners, and retail leaders, while touring supply chain facilities and gaining insight into how soybeans are used in products such as tofu, miso, and soy milk. The group also explored the connection between soybeans and meat exports, noting Japan as a top destination for U.S. pork. Farmers emphasized the importance of face-to-face engagement to maintain trust and ensure Ohio soybeans continue to meet customer needs.

The mission continued in Vietnam, a rapidly growing market driven by rising demand for protein. The delegation met with agribusiness leaders, toured feed production facilities, and received market insights from U.S. officials. With strong growth in livestock and aquaculture production, Vietnam presents increasing demand for soybean meal, creating new opportunities for Ohio farmers to supply high-quality, sustainably produced soybeans.

The mission concluded in Hanoi with meetings involving Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. Building on prior collaboration, the Ohio Soybean Council signed an updated memorandum of understanding to expand trade, strengthen supply chains, and support Vietnam’s growing feed sector.

“It was an honor to sign this memorandum of understanding on behalf of all Ohio soybean farmers” said OSC Chairman and Auglaize County farmer Jerry Bambauer. “The connections we built during this promotion mission will benefit Ohio agriculture for years to come.”

“Trade missions are an important economic tool,” said ODA Director Brian Baldridge. “Our goal is to build relationships, protect existing markets, and identify new opportunities for growth that benefit our hardworking farmers. Every sale creates demand across the supply chain—from transportation to processing—supporting jobs and strengthening communities across Ohio.”

The mission underscores Ohio’s role in the global food system and positions its soybean industry for continued growth in key international markets.