By Dori Modney (@Dori_Modney on Twitter)

Growing demand for soybeans bolsters Canadian exports

Apr 6, 2017 | 3:53 PM

LETHBRIDGE –  As farmers prepare for spring seeding, some will think beyond wheat and canola…and look towards soybeans.  
 
Soybean production has increased in Canada based on growing demand from international markets.
The importance of that market is underscored by the fact that China is boosting  imports between 85 million and 90 million tonnes.

Japan represents about 32 percent of food-grade soybean exports. In 2015, Canada exported over 290,000 metric tonnes of soybeans to Japan, at a value of $260 million.
 
Also, Thailand, an expanding market, imported over 80,000 metric tonnes of product in 2014-15, at a value of nearly $55 million.
 
A Soy Canada contingent just returned from trade missions in Japan and Indonesia, where they showcased the high quality of Canada’s 2016 soybean crop and worked to build relationships with trading partners.  The Canadian contingent, which included producers, seed companies and exporter representatives, met with industry associations and hosted a seminar with stakeholders to highlight the growing soybean industry in Canada, as well as new research and innovation.  
 
More information about Canada’s 2017 outlook for principal field crops can be found on the Canadian Grain Commission website.