Producers Address China Pullback, Big Crop at Export Sorghum 2025

With China’s pullback, U.S. sorghum producers must broaden their export markets. Building connections now could help stabilize prices and demand for the upcoming larger crop.

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (RFD-TV) — With U.S. sorghum exports to China down nearly 70 percent this marketing year and USDA projecting a 402 million bushel crop—17 percent larger than last year—industry leaders gathered in San Antonio for Export Sorghum 2025.

The United Sorghum Checkoff Program, Texas Sorghum, Kansas Sorghum, and industry partners organized the event to connect producers with new global buyers and highlight opportunities beyond China.

More than 130 producers, exporters, government officials, and international delegations attended the three-day program. Sessions covered sorghum grades and standards, sustainability, supply chain reliability, and uses in livestock and pet food. USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg joined to underscore export opportunities. Structured business-to-business meetings linked buyers directly with U.S. companies, while tours across the sorghum belt showcased production and logistics from farm to port.

The event underscored the Checkoff’s role in diversifying markets and securing future demand for sorghum.

Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: With China’s pullback, U.S. sorghum producers must broaden their export markets. Building connections now could help stabilize prices and demand for the upcoming larger crop.
Related Stories
Negotiators are focusing on tariffs, market access, and economic security as broader trade discussions continue.
The American Sheep Industry Association says high labor costs and volatile markets continue creating pressure for producers.
Julia Andrus with Phospholutions joins us to discuss fertilizer market uncertainty, evolving grower strategies, and how efficiency is reshaping nutrient management decisions in modern agriculture.
The U.S. Meat Export Federation continues building global relationships aimed at creating new opportunities for U.S. livestock producers

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Fred Nichols with Huma joins us to break down “just in time” fertilizer applications, a growing trend in modern nutrient management as input costs continue to pressure farmers.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney says producers should continue to watch tariff negotiations, market access, and the possibility of a more transactional trade relationship with China.
RFD News Farm Legal Expert Roger McEowen discussed red flags landowners should watch for during property transactions.
ASFMRA’s Howard Halderman says several economic and policy issues are continuing to influence the farmland market.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us to discuss spring planting progress and the outlook for trade and demand as the season continues.
USMCA review nears a critical stage as the U.S. and Mexico advance talks while Canada risks being left behind, raising concerns across North American agriculture trade.