Press Release

The South Dakota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (SDSRPC) encourages South Dakota soybean farmers to apply for the 2016 See For Yourself program in China. Ten farmers will be selected to travel to China, March 7-16, 2016, where they will experience first-hand how the South Dakota soybean checkoff is working for them in the country.

With over 60% of South Dakota’s soybean crop exported overseas, understanding the importance international markets is critical to farmers in the state. As the world’s No. 1 soybean importer and U.S. soybean farmers’ top export customer, China’s total soybean consumption is expected to top 3 billion bushels this year.

To be eligible to apply, applicants must be soybean farmers and pay the South Dakota soybean checkoff. The cost to participate is $1,000. Farmers can submit their applications online at: www.sdsoybean.org/Events/See_For_Yourself. The deadline to apply is August 18.

“China imports over one third of South Dakota’s soybean crop. This program will be an excellent opportunity for South Dakota soybean farmers to experience the export process in one of the largest markets in the world,” said Marc Reiner, farmer from Tripp and SDSRPC Chairman.

While in the country, South Dakota soybean farmers will have the opportunity to meet with some of the largest buyers of U.S. soybeans and soybean meal. Participants will visit the cities of Beijing, Guangzhou, Nanning, Hong Kong and Shenzhen. Tour stops include Chinese ports, hog and poultry farms, aquaculture facilities, a crushing plant and feed mill. Participants will also get a taste of Chinese culture and history by visiting the Forbidden City and Great Wall.

For more information on the 2016 China See for Yourself experience and to apply, please visit www.sdsoybean.org.