Indiana Soybean Alliance, USMEF Team Up to Boost Global Demand for U.S. Ag Products

David Hardin with the Indiana Soybean Alliance discusses USMEF’s push to open new global export markets for both meat and soy-based feed.

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (RFD-TV) — Crop and livestock producers often work hand in hand to develop new export markets for U.S. agriculture. This week, the Indiana Soybean Alliance is hosting the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) to discuss strategies for expanding global opportunities for American farmers and ranchers.

David Hardin with the Indiana Soybean Alliance joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to share insights from the event and discuss the strong connection between soybean growers and the U.S. meat export industry.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, Hardin explained why meat exports are so important to Indiana’s soybean farmers and how that partnership helps drive demand for soy-based feed and other agricultural products. He also discussed his own involvement in USMEF’s work and the strategic planning taking place this week.

Hardin also shared what it means to welcome USMEF leadership and global staff to Indiana for the conference and offered a look at his own diversified operation, where he raises hogs, soybeans, and corn.

Related Stories
The Final Grain Stocks Report may be the last key figures we see if a government shutdown halts future updates.
The total value of the U.S. potato crop was $4.60 billion in 2024, representing an 8% decrease from the previous year.
“Those could’ve easily been our beans going over there. It goes to show that if that opportunity is there, China would be willing to buy.”
We caught up with Karen Braun, Chief Market Analyst at Zaner Ag Hedge, at the Women in Agribusiness to discuss the data behind commodity trading.
A booming butterfat market is good for some dairy products but threatens efficiency and margins for cheesemakers unless protein levels catch up
Strong corn exports are anchoring U.S. trade, while soybean sales remain steady, but shipments lag.
Secretary Rollins’ plan targets high costs, labor challenges, and export growth, delivering relief at home while building markets abroad.
Transportation challenges are mounting as droughts lower Mississippi River levels and push freight rates higher.
U.S. soybean farmers are growing increasingly frustrated by Argentina’s gains in Chinese grain contracts and Trump’s pledge of economic support for the South American ally.