WILLIAMSPORT, OHIO (RFD-TV) — The American Soybean Association (ASA) is urging the Trump administration to strengthen trade relations with China, including removing the remaining 10-percent tariff on U.S. soybeans and securing additional long-term export commitments.
ASA President Scott Metzger, an Ohio soybean farmer, joined Market Day Report to discuss China’s purchase commitments, competition from South American exporters and the importance of expanding access to the Chinese market.
China Working Toward Soybean Purchase Commitment
Under the Trump-Xi trade agreement, China committed to purchase at least 25 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans annually in 2026, 2027 and 2028.
In his interview with RFD-TV, Metzger said China had made progress toward its 2026 commitment, with the latest figure he had seen at approximately 15 million metric tons.
“They are on their way to fulfilling them,” Metzger said. “But we want to make sure that they fulfill these for this year and for ’27 and ’28 as well.”
He said maintaining those commitments will be important in giving U.S. soybean growers more certainty as they make production and marketing decisions.
Remaining 10% Tariff Creates Competitive Disadvantage
One of ASA’s primary requests is the removal of China’s remaining 10% retaliatory tariff on U.S. soybeans.
Metzger said the duty makes American soybeans less competitive against supplies from Brazil and other South American exporters.
“It just puts us at an unfair disadvantage and makes soybeans from Brazil a better buy,” he said.
The tariff also limits access for private Chinese importers, leaving much of the U.S. soybean trade dependent on state-owned enterprises. ASA believes removing the duty would open more opportunities for private buyers and expand access to commercial markets.
Metzger said U.S. soybean producers could potentially supply another 25% to 30% above the current purchase commitment before creating additional pressure on domestic demand, although he noted that the exact amount depends on market conditions.
Shipping Issues Remain on the Radar
Metzger also wants a longer-term suspension of Section 301 port fees involving Chinese-built and Chinese-operated vessels.
He said avoiding those additional shipping costs during the primary export season helps keep U.S. soybeans competitive and reduces the risk of disruptions in moving products to international buyers.
The U.S. Trade Representative formally extended the suspension of the maritime-related Section 301 actions through January 9, 2027, following additional U.S.-China trade discussions.
Upcoming Trump-Xi Talks Could Provide Another Opportunity
With President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping expected to meet at the November 18-19 APEC summit in Shenzhen, China, Metzger hopes soybean market access will remain part of the trade discussions.
He said removing the remaining tariff, securing additional purchase commitments and maintaining shipping relief would go a long way toward strengthening the relationship.
“Just seeing that we can have what we’ve asked for, especially with the tariffs, the 10% on there, would go a long way,” Metzger said.
Ohio Harvest Delivers Strong Results
Beyond trade policy, Metzger reported a successful harvest on his own Ohio operation.
He said the farm produced record corn and soybean crops, while double-crop soybeans finished slightly above average.
The operation also completed harvest on schedule, giving Metzger an opportunity to shift attention back to his responsibilities representing soybean growers nationally.
