SSGA talks successes in D.C.
SSGA staff and board members discussed their successes and future plans with USDA, several agricultural organizations and legislative leaders during their Washington, D.C., trip in April. SSGA Chair Bob Sinner, […]
Opportunities in Japan’s food processing ingredients sector reported by USDA
According to USDA/FAS’s annual report on Japan’s Food Processing Ingredients sector, confectionary products, condiments/sauces and whisky (rye or bourbon) are among top prospects for manufacturing using U.S. ingredients. The report […]
Argus Murmurings: Effects of port closure expected to be minimal for organic soy market
Organic soybean imports in April 2024 are estimated at 3,400 MT, down 90% from the prior month and 89% from the prior year. Ukraine and Canada both supplied an estimated […]
Transportation Roundup: Intermodal transport industry eyeing potential strike, SSGA watching changing sailing dates
By Gary Williams, SSGA director of transportation and regulatory affairs We are watching…Canada. The Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC) Union is voting during a period beginning April 8-May 1 on […]
Transportation Roundup: Cargo insurance basics
The Maersk Dali is a crisp reminder of the value of cargo insurance when you finally need it. In the news of late and conversations on some of the calls […]
IP Crop Network, April Report
This feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed to this report. Minnesota […]
Save the date for SSGA’s 2025 events
SSGA has announced dates for three events in 2025. The Identity Preserved International Summit will return Feb. 18-20 in Honolulu, Hawaii. SSGA’s annual meeting will be held March 11, followed […]
ICC group will enhance SSGA’s international network
SSGA is pleased to announce the addition of a global management team that will be working on the alliance’s behalf in implementing overseas programs, including promotion of the U.S. Identity […]
Transportation Roundup: CARB regulations could hinder ag shippers
Of current concern for much of the agriculture industry is the request from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for authorization of regulations that would target key aspects of the […]
SSGA celebrates first US identity preserved sale to South Asia
After three years promoting U.S. identity preserved soy in India, Nepal and Sri Lanka, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance’s (SSGA) efforts have met the ultimate success. In late 2023, […]
SSGA awards fourth annual Alliance Honors
At Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance’s (SSGA) annual meeting on March 12, the fourth annual SSGA Alliance Honors were awarded. The Alliance Honors give the SSGA Executive Committee the opportunity to […]
SSGA celebrates 5 years, holds board elections
Since its inception 5 years ago, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) has led the way. In 2019, the Midwest Shippers Association and Northern Food Grade Soybean Association (NFGSA) […]
SSGA promotes US Identity Preserved crops at FOODEX Japan
After the FOODEX Japan event, it’s safe to say that Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) director’s and staff’s dogs were barking. March 5-8, SSGA exhibited at FOODEX Japan, which […]
IP Crop Network, March Report
This feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed to this report. Minnesota […]
SSGA promoting quality with U.S. Identity Preserved in Japan
Alliance to present workshop for food manufactures, buyers during FOODEX trade show The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) is taking its Identity Preserved International Summit Workshop to Tokyo, Japan, […]
Transportation Roundup: Implications for container vessel capacity increases
The Journal of Commerce put this graphic out last week that tells the story of just how much new capacity was gained in 2023. Already slow steaming, there are many […]
New SSGA team member ready to make an impact
Gary Williams and the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) have found each other at the right moment in time. “This is a transformative organization,” Williams said. After a lengthy […]
NCI to host on-demand and in-person soyfoods courses in 2024
The Northern Crops Institute (NCI) will be hosting a variety of soyfoods courses in 2024, including; High Oleic Soyfoods, IP/Food Grade Soybean Procurement, INTSOY, and Plant-Based Texturized Protein Products. These […]
Transportation Roundup: Governments intervening to provide Red Sea shipping relief
Some articles linked may require subscriptions to read. As Red Sea attacks continue to hamper the global shipping industry, several Asian countries are employing measures to help shippers. The South […]
SSGA growing opportunities at Minnesota events
SSGA was greeted by enthusiastic audiences at two Minnesota events in January to discuss identity preserved field crops and opportunities for the upcoming growing season. At MN Ag Expo Jan. […]
IP Crop Network, Mid-Winter Report
This feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for identity preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed to this mid-winter report. […]
Transportation Roundup: Nearly 6 million TEUs diverting Red Sea
Some articles linked may require subscriptions to read. As of Jan. 5, more than 420 container ships carrying 5.75 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) have diverted the Red Sea and […]
Member Profile: Chuck Kunisch, Michigan Agricultural Commodities
Born and raised in the thumb of Michigan, Chuck Kunisch has been involved in agriculture since he was very young. Growing up along Saginaw Bay, Kunisch and his family grew […]
Mercaris Murmurings: New Argentine leadership could impact organic soybean imports
Organic soybean imports in Nov. 2023 increased significantly to 28,000 MT, an increase of 56% y/y and 2200% m/m. Argentina was the largest source with 16,000 MT, followed by Turkey […]
NCI hosting high oleic soyfoods, soy food procurement courses
Northern Crops Institute (NCI) recently launched an online course titled “High Oleic Soyfoods.” This online course is designed to introduce uses for high oleic soybean in food products and understand the […]
Growth and opportunities in South Korea
By Hoa Huynh for SSGA South Korea continues to be an important market for U.S. high quality soybeans and specialty grains. Exports of $712 million of corn, $462 million of […]
Member Profile: Jake Noll, Richland IFC
Jake Noll didn’t grow up on a farm but learned to love agriculture by being involved on his grandparents’ operation during the summers. Working alongside his uncle, Noll’s appreciation for […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Positive early harvest indications
Organic soybean imports in October 2023 were down sharply to 1,200 MT, a decline of 87% y/y and 96% m/m. No country sent more than 1,000 MT in October, with […]
Transportation Roundup: Shipper revenues drop, imports return to West Coast
CMA CGM is the latest shipper to report a significant drop in net earnings in the third quarter, down 51.8% year-over-year in its container shipping segment. However, the number of […]
IP Crop Network, November Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Member Profile: Pamela Ryan, Stonebridge Ltd.
Pamela Ryan grew up in a musical family, which led her to pursue a degree in music education. However, after graduating from the University of Iowa, Ryan found an opportunity […]
SSGA sees potential in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is a growing market with great potential for high-value crops from the United States, including those processed and exported by Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance members. Because of […]
SSGA applauds USDA investment to diversify export markets
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) applauds the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announced intention for new programs to help U.S. farmers maintain and diversify export markets and bolster […]
HQSG program reaches 700 submissions, open for more participants
In April 2023, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) launched the High Quality Specialty Grains (HQSG) inspection program. The audit-based program, administratively supported […]
Transportation Roundup: Canadians strike, West Coast port sets record
More than 360 Canadian workers on the St. Lawrence Seaway began striking on Sunday for higher wages to keep up with rising living costs. The bi-national St. Lawrence Seaway is […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean imports remain strong with increased African exports
Organic soybean imports were up in September to an estimated 32,000 MT, an increase of 325% y/y and 144% m/m. This large volume was driven by 19,000 MT coming out […]
IP Crop Network, October Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Weed control in soybeans: How to win the battle in 2024
By David Kee, SSGA Agronomy action team Staff Lead/Director of Research, Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council Herbicide resistant weeds have taken the stage in the continued doom and gloom […]
Board approves US Identity Preserved labeling standard
Customers of U.S. Identity Preserved-certified suppliers will be able to begin using the Identity Preserved United States label on their retail packaging, following a decision by the Specialty Soya and […]
Transportation Go! 2024 set for March 13-14
Get ready to go to Transportation Go! March 13-14, 2024, in Toledo, Ohio. The premier conference for agriculture transportation and trade issues in the Midwest, Transportation Go! brings together growers, […]
Transportation Roundup: Container ag exports down, rates up
Containerized U.S. agricultural exports dropped to the lowest first-half volume since 2016, with four West Coast ports recording the largest declines. Soybean exports suffered the largest declines in sales. Lower […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean acreage remains strong
Organic soybean imports into the United States bounced back in August but remained below historic levels. An estimated 13,000 MT of organic soybeans were imported in August, which is down […]
SSGA gathers for board meeting, gets first look at Ag Innovation Campus
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) board made their way to Fargo, N.D., Sept. 13-14 for the organization’s quarterly board meeting. Before they got down to business on Thursday […]
SSGA, US Identity Preserved on display at Soy Connext
The U.S. Identity Preserved label was on display when SSGA participated in USSEC’s Soy Connext conference Aug. 21-23 in New York City. SSGA was a sponsor and manned a trade table […]
IP Crop Network, September Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
‘A firsthand look’: SSGA finds opportunities in Halifax
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) is creating opportunities beyond the St. Lawrence Seaway. In August, SSGA hosted a See for Yourself Port of Halifax tour, sponsored by the […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Ukraine organic soybean supply could impact US markets
After a strong June, U.S. organic soybean imports were quiet in July. An estimated 1,400 MT of organic soybeans came in during July, all of which were sourced from Canada. […]
Building relationships – from ‘Fork to Farm’
The term “fork to farm” still might sound backwards to some, but for the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) and its members who supply food-grade soybeans, including those labeled […]
Transportation Roundup: Labor strike effects to linger
Nearly 75% of International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) of Canada members voted to approve the tentative agreement with West Coast ports last week, but congestion in the supply chain […]
IP Crop Network, August Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Ancient Grains Conference explores trends, challenges, opportunities
While the grains may be ancient, the market for them is growing and evolving. That was the message shared during the second annual Ancient Grains Conference at the Oliver Kelley […]
Transportation Roundup: Maritime industry automation could be global crisis
Some articles linked may require subscriptions to read. During the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) convention on Monday, President Harold J. Daggett expressed his displeasure with automation in the maritime industry. […]
SSGA leads transportation panel
On July 13, SSGA Executive Director Eric Wenberg led a panel, “Teamwork Approach to Logistics & Transportation,” at the U.S. Agricultural Export Development Coalition’s (USAEDC) Attaché Seminar. Panelists, which included Port […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Drought worsens organic soybean crop
U.S. organic soybean imports saw another strong month in June. The United States imported 28,000 MT of organic soybeans in June, which is a 286% y/y increase but a 27% […]
IP Crop Network, July Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Transportation Roundup: Submit Export Sales Reporting and Maintenance System comments
SSGA is collecting comments from members about the USDA Export Sales Reporting and Maintenance System 2.1 (ESRMS 2.1). Access the survey at this link. SSGA will submit your anonymous comments from […]
SSGA event creates solid links of a chain
Events like SSGA’s Fork to Farm help create solid links between everyone involved with the U.S. identity preserved field crop industry: From a crop’s start at the farm, to the […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean imports and prices return
U.S. organic soybean imports returned in May after a weak April. 39,000 MT of whole organic soybeans came into the country in May, which is more than 32 times the […]
SSGA highlights economic benefits of U.S. Identity Preserved to trade group
The Northern Crops Institute (NCI) welcomed a small trade group from Cambodia and Myanmar to Fargo, N.D., this week as part of a Food Grade Soybean Procurement Course. The course […]
Transportation Roundup: FMC releases notice of proposed rulemaking
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) released a Supplemental Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (SNPRM) Monday, proposing how it would implement the prohibition on common carriers unreasonably refusing available cargo space for […]
SSGA seeks to make U.S. IP ‘big in Japan’
The tour through the Aeon Style supermarket in Tokyo showed the Americans several ways U.S. agriculture impacts Japan. The travelers were part of a U.S. Department of Agriculture trade mission, […]
IP Crop Network, June Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
SSGA tours Port of Duluth
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance experienced a closer look at the burgeoning shipping opportunities at the Port of Duluth-Superior during a visit with four Moroccan buyers as part of […]
SSGA presents at Indian Plant Based Foods Summit
On May 24-29, SSGA Executive Director Eric Wenberg visited India as a guest of the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), accompanying USSEC CEO Jim Sutter and Regional Director Kevin Roepke. […]
FIRST in its class: SSGA uses third-party field trials for assurance
Everyone loves a good mystery. When farmers plant – and end users buy – soybeans, they don’t want a mystery. They want to know exactly what they’re going to get. […]
High Quality Specialty Grains inspection program can aid phytosanitary requirement
Japan’s new requirement for a phytosanitary certificate for U.S. origin shipments of soybeans and soybean meal begins on Aug. 5, 2023. This requirement by Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Quiet month for organic soybean imports
Imports of organic soybean – both whole beans and meal – into the U.S. were quiet in April. Just 1,200 MT of organic soybeans came into the U.S. in April, […]
Transportation Roundup: The truth behind the numbers
Two ocean common carriers have reached agreement with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) to resolve allegations of misconduct. Ocean Network Express (ONE) resolved allegations of assessing detention charges when appointments […]
Transportation Roundup: OSRA hits milestone
On May 1, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act’s Charge Complaint process surpassed $1 million in waived or refunded disputed charges to shippers and truckers. The milestone comes more than 10 […]
IP Crop Network, May Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
SSGA presents at Asia Soy Excellence and Food Summit
SSGA presented an update on the supply, sourcing and forecast for U.S. soy and specialty food soybeans during the Asia Soy Excellence & Food Summit 2023 in Thailand. SB&B partner […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean prices continue to dip
U.S. organic soybean imports in March reached 22,000 MT, a decline of 14% from the prior year. For the second straight month, Turkey was the largest source of organic soybeans […]
SSGA joins first ever USDA Netherlands trade mission
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance is constantly looking for opportunities to promote its members’ companies, expand exports of their high-quality products and familiarize the world with the U.S. Identity […]
NCI to host soybean courses
The Northern Crop Institute will host two soybean courses this summer. Industry members and processors of soy foods, foreign and domestic, are encouraged to attend either course in Fargo, N.D. […]
Transportation Roundup: Labor negotiations continue to intensify
Operations at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach grinded to a halt last week due to a manpower shortage possibly related to the ongoing labor dispute between the […]
SSGA joining USDA Netherlands trade mission
On April 17-20, SSGA Manager of Strategic Programs Shane Frederick will accompany USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis M. Taylor’s delegation during USDA’s first-ever regional agribusiness […]
IP Crop Network, April Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Donkers replaces Schrader on SSGA board
Gail Donkers, farmer and Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council director, has been selected to finish the term of Keith Schrader on the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance Board of […]
IP Farming course now available at SSGA University
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance’s online learning modules, SSGA University, continue to expand. All that’s missing now is a mascot! Last week, SSGA University added a new module to […]
Transportation Roundup: FMC ruling and trucking woes
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) released a final rule last week amending the Rules of Practice and Procedure governing the compromise, assessment, mitigation, settlement and collection of civil penalties. The […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean market remains uncertain
U.S. organic soybean imports in February saw a surge back up to 33,000 metric tons (MT) after less than 2,000 MT came in just a month prior. This is the […]
Transportation Go! connects supply chain through collaboration, innovative thinking
A common theme occurred at the 2023 Transportation Go! conference: Ag logistics and transportation are complex and ever-evolving, and finding solutions to the problems facing the industry require strong relationships, […]
IP Crop Network, March Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
SSGA delivers ‘Classic’ message
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance delivered its “Fork to Farm” message and handed out plenty of forks (and knives and spoons) as a reminder during last week’s Commodity Classic […]
Transportation Roundup: News from TPM23 and more
Many people in the container shipping and logistics industry are attending the TPM23 conference this week in Long Beach, Calif. News from the event can be found on the Journal […]
SSGA, AgTC to team up for ag transport events
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance has long had a great relationship with the Agriculture Transportation Coalition, known as AgTC. So we’re thrilled that AgTC plans to hold one of […]
Transportation Roundup: Rail agreements and labor negotiations
The Federal Maritime Commission is working through more than 200 complaints against ocean carriers with rising demurrage and detention fees a top complaint. This comes even as congestion at ports […]
IP Crop Network, February Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Transportation Go! agenda nearly finalized
Transportation Go!, the premier conference for soybean, grain and other agricultural transportation issues in the Midwest, is set to take place March 15-16, 2023, in Omaha, Nebraska, at the Hilton […]
Transportation Roundup: Spot rates fall; FMC seeks additional comments
Spot rates for container shippers are falling back to pre-pandemic levels in multiple areas. The Journal of Commerce reported that spot rates for Asia to North Europe fell to similar […]
Identity Preserved International Summit puts ‘right people in the right room’
In 1960, the East-West Center, a place for education, dialogue and research between the world’s two hemispheres, was established in Hawaii. Speaking last week during the Specialty Soya and Grains […]
SSGA presents at Minnesota Organic Conference
SSGA Manager of Strategic Programs Shane Frederick spoke on the U.S. Identity Preserved assurance plan and brand program during a breakout presentation titled “Planning for a Change” at the Minnesota […]
Sponsors see value in international SSGA event
When more than 100 buyers, sellers, processors and users of high-quality grains and oilseeds arrive in Honolulu in mid-January, they’ll be welcomed to ocean breezes and 80-degree temperatures in a […]
SSGA pitches U.S. Identity Preserved in Dubai
SSGA had the honor of presenting at “Pitch2Fork,” an investor/start-up meeting in Dubai on Dec. 14-15. The event was hosted by Right to Protein and supported by U.S. Soy. The […]
Transportation Roundup: Container imports continue to plunge, railroads still under fire
In early December President Biden signed a bill to avoid the rail strike, but tensions are still high between class I railroads and unions. At a Surface Transportation Board (STB) […]
IP Crop Network, December Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
SSGA elects two new board members; tabs Sinner as chair
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) welcomed two new members to its board of directors during the group’s annual meeting on Thursday, as Jake Noll of Minnesota-based Richland IFC […]
Transportation Roundup: Rail strike threat continues
The SSGA Competitive Shipping team continues to stay abreast of agriculture transportation issues in the container shipping industry, and railroad labor remains at top of mind. The final two railroad […]
Mercaris Murmurings: U.S. flooded with organic soybean imports
In October, U.S. organic soybean imports increased significantly, reaching 44,800 MT after only 8,400 MT in September. Over October, most organic soybean imports came from Argentina with 23,600 MT, up […]
IP Crop Network, November Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Aloha! Register today for Identity Preserved International Summit
On the heels of its U.S. Identity Preserved brand launch in Vietnam, SSGA will hold its next global gathering January 11-13, 2023, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Grains and oilseeds buyers, food […]
A ‘Movement’ Begins: US Identity Preserved Holds International Unveiling
SSGA, Industry leaders gather in Vietnam to attend global launch The U.S. Identity Preserved brand is now officially a global entity. On Nov. 1, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance […]
Transportation Update: Challenges remain; keep lines of communication open
While there have been some signs of progress on the global shipping front since the passage of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act in June, many challenges remain for SSGA member […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean climb may be near an end
The organic soybean market has continued to be a roller coaster since 2020, and the long upward climb appears to be at an end. In September, U.S. organic soybean imports […]
Transportation Roundup: Railroad union rejects proposal
SSGA staff has compiled a roundup of current news in the container transportation industry. Click the links below to view the original stories. A rail strike could again be looming […]
IP Crop Network, October report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Transportation Roundup: Fall shipping rates continue to fall
SSGA staff have compiled a round up of current news in the container transportation industry. Click the links below to view the original stories. Fall is usually peak shipping season, […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic import volumes remain significant
In August, U.S. organic soybeans saw a second consecutive significant month, with imports reaching over 49,000 MT. That is a total of almost 100,000 MT over the last two months. […]
First-of-its-kind specialty ag conference set for Hawaii
First-of-its-kind specialty ag conference set for Hawaii SSGA to host Identity Preserved International Summit Jan. 11-13 in Honolulu Identity preserved soybeans and grains cross the Pacific Ocean throughout the year, […]
U.S. Identity Preserved gets international launch
In December 2021, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) launched a new mark, designating premium crops with verifiable origins. The U.S. Identity Preserved quality assurance plan and brand mark […]
IP Crop Network, September Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Looming rail strike could cripple ag shipping
SSGA is monitoring the labor situation and potential rail strike that could take place later this week and severely affect service on Class I railroads BNSF, CSX Norfolk Southern, CN, […]
SSGA advises Philippines DDGS delegation on transportation
Fifteen poultry and livestock feed importer buyers from the Philippines learned about the current trends in container and bulk grain shipping, along with opportunities to purchase U.S. dried distillers grains […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean prices dropping before harvest
U.S. organic soybean imports continued to build, reaching over 59,000 MT over July, up 40% y/y. Over July, organic soybean imports were supported by significant volumes from Argentina and Turkey. […]
SSGA tours the Midwest
SSGA Executive Director Eric Wenberg toured the Midwest last week, starting with the AgroExpo in St. Johns, Michigan and continuing with visits to members in Indiana. AgroExpo featured more than […]
Transportation Roundup: Container, equipment shortages continue for SSGA members
SSGA staff have compiled a round up of current news in the container transportation industry. Click the links below to view the original stories. A shortage of shipping containers and […]
Transportation Roundup: Federal agencies seeking public comments
SSGA staff have compiled a roundup of current news in the container transportation industry. Click the links below to view the original stories. After meeting with truckers and marine terminal […]
IP Crop Network, August Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Transportation Roundup: Unconventional peak season ahead
SSGA staff have compiled a roundup of current news in the container transportation industry. Click the links below to view the original stories. At Container xChange’s recent webinar, analysts discussed […]
Philippines trip sparks fruitful conversations
The Philippines is a country that relies on agricultural imports for food and food ingredients and also has a strong affinity for American brands, making it an ideal place for […]
SSGA goes globetrotting
The second half of 2022 will be one of outreach for the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance. Travel is underway, as SSGA spreads the message of high quality to our […]
Transportation Roundup: ‘Bringing a wooly mammoth back to life’
SSGA staff have compiled a roundup of current news in the container transportation industry. Click the links below to view the original stories. A prospective ship-to-rail container terminal on Oregon’s […]
IP Crop Report, July Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean imports continue to climb
U.S. organic soybean imports were higher y/y for the seventh month in a row, reaching 23,000 MT over May. Organic soybean imports were supported in May by large volumes from […]
SSGA addresses buyers in Indonesia
With food availability a concern in Indonesia, USDA Foreign Agricultural Service Agriculture Counselor Rey Santella emphasized the need for the United States and Indonesia to keep trade open to help […]
SSGA applauds Ocean Shipping Reform Act passage
Relief is finally in sight for agricultural shippers, after President Biden signed the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022 on Thursday. The law will ensure a more competitive global ocean […]
Ocean Shipping Reform Act to become law
Ag shippers from central U.S. in need of relief More than 2 ½ years ago, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance was one of the first agricultural associations to sound […]
International soyfood leaders complete week of learning
For Yan Small, specialty soybeans grown and processed in Minnesota are perfect for her tofu. Sure, they’re conveniently located, as her business, MinnTofu, is based in the heart of the […]
IP Crop Report, June Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Transportation Roundup: SSGA urges FMC funding increase
SSGA staff have compiled a roundup of current news in the container transportation industry. Click the links below to view the original stories. SSGA joined other several other agricultural organizations […]
Containers depart Port of Duluth in historic shipment
There was some positive shipping news out of Duluth last month when 200 containers of Chippewa Valley Bean kidney beans left the Port of Duluth-Superior bound for Europe. It was […]
Member Profile: Bryan Stobaugh, Missouri Soybeans
Bryan Stobaugh kicked off his collegiate career majoring in biology and chemistry at Arkansas Tech. But fate led him to a graduate assistantship in soybean breeding at the University of […]
Mercaris Murmurings: U.S. organic soybean imports build, soybean meal imports drop
U.S. organic soybean imports continued to build over April, exceeding 36,000 MT, or the largest import volume since July of 2021. Organic soybean imports were supported over April by another […]
Transportation Roundup: Ships get bigger, ports get busier
SSGA staff have compiled a roundup of current news in the container transportation industry. Click the links below to view the original stories. Ships keep getting bigger and bigger and […]
Special Delivery: Classic winners receive U.S. Identity Preserved picnic tables
Stan Ryan said he was just looking for a place to sit down after a long day at Commodity Classic and found a comfortable seat in the Specialty Soya and […]
Transportation Roundup: Federal agencies requiring further reporting to improve ocean, rail shipping
Following a two-day public hearing at the end of April, the Surface Transportation Board (STB) will require Class I railroads to submit reports on rail service, operations and employment. Four […]
Myanmar importers participate in SSGA U courses
SSGA University held its first in-person class on May 3, as a group sponsored by ASA WISHH (World Initiative for Soy in Human Health) gathered in a hotel meeting room […]
IP Crop Network, May Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Member Profile: Colby Eymann, Scoular
Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) Treasurer Colby Eymann grew up in Kansas City, but agriculture and farming runs deep in his family for generations. Eymann returned to agriculture after […]
Transportation Roundup: Container congestion continues
Supply chain, transportation problems continue to hamper SSGA member companies As we head into a third year since COVID first began disrupting our supply chains, transportation problems have not subsided […]
Mercaris Murmurings: U.S. organic soybean acreage expected to increase
Organic soybean prices are holding steady but elevated into April, as the market weighs the supply outlook for the rest of the year. While early indications from organic seed sales […]
SSGA goes to Kathmandu
SSGA participated virtually in a U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC)-organized “Soy Protein and Health” seminar in Kathmandu, Nepal, on April 13. More than 70 representatives from Nepal’s soy food and […]
IP Crop Network, April Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
SSGA press release earns national merit honor
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance and Ag Management Solutions captured merit honors (second place) at the National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) 2022 Agri-Marketing Conference Best of NAMA awards ceremony on […]
Abbe steps down as SSGA adviser
Bruce Abbe, the longtime leader of the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance’s (SSGA) predecessor organization, has stepped down as SSGA’s strategic adviser for trade and transportation. SSGA is grateful for […]
U.S. exporters and Chinese importers talk IP
Nearly 150 people met online on March 30 for an U.S. Identity Preserved webinar and IP B2B meetings between SSGA-member exporters and potential buyers from China. The event was held […]
SSGA applauds Senate passage of Ocean Shipping Reform Act
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance applauds the United States Senate for passing its version of Ocean Shipping Reform Act. The bipartisan bill, co-sponsored by Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and […]
OSPA receives affirmative final determination on India matter
The Department of Commerce on March 18 announced its affirmative final determinations in the antidumping duty and countervailing duty investigations of organic soybean from India. The petitioners in the case […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic outlook tightens amid Ukraine conflict
The market outlook for organic soybeans continued to tighten over the first half of March, with prices averaging $39 per bushel delivered to U.S. Corn Belt elevators over the two-week […]
SSGA to hold webinar, IP B2B for China
On the heels of our virtual, business-to-business matchmaking meetings in Southeast Asia in 2021, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance will host a U.S. Specialty Soya and Grains Webinar and […]
SSGA brings IP message to Commodity Classic
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance met with farmers from all around the United States and others about the organization and the U.S. Identity Preserved assurance plan and mark during […]
Transportation Go! brings ag shipping industry to Milwaukee
Agricultural transportation has myriad challenges, no matter the mode of movement, and representatives of all points on the supply chain gathered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, last week to discuss issues and […]
Competitive Shipping News and Developments
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, Strategic Trade and Transportation Advisor Biden Administration, Congress seek to promote competition in ocean liner system Concerns over the concentration of power within the ocean container […]
IP Crop Network, March report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
SSGA shakes up the breadbasket
More than 450 people logged on to learn about ancient grains during an SSGA-sponsored Oldways-Whole Grains Council webinar titled “Shaking up the Breadbasket: The Dietitian’s Guide to Increasing Biodiversity with […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic prices regain momentum
Organic feed-grade soybean prices are regaining bullish momentum in February, averaging $36.50 per bushel delivered to U.S. Corn Belt elevators. That’s up more than $3.50 per bushel from the start […]
Transportation Go! to feature panels on intermodal trucking, transloading, rail and more
Competitive Shipping News and Developments Transportation Go! to feature panels on intermodal trucking, transloading, rail and more Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation It’s not […]
SSGA chairman addresses White House Office of Outreach and National Economic Council
Rob Prather, SSGA chairman and chief strategic ambassador for Global Processing of Kanawha, Iowa, represented all exporters in the container crisis when he commented to the White House that the […]
Transportation Go! early bird registration extended
The early bird registration price for Transportation Go! has been extended through Friday, Feb. 11. Transportation Go!, the premier conference for soybean and grain transportation and trade issues in the […]
Competitive Shipping: SSGA backs Senate’s ocean shipping reform legislation
By Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation The much-awaited U.S. Senate version of the ocean shipping reform legislation was formally introduced on Thursday by Sen. Amy Klobuchar […]
Federal Maritime Commission chair, Surface Transportation Board member to appear at Transportation Go!
Daniel Maffei, Robert Primus to discuss agricultural transportation issues Transportation Go!, the premier conference for soybean and grain transportation and trade issues in the Upper Midwest, is pleased to announce […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean markets risky and unsettled
With 2022 in full swing, and organic soybean markets as unsettled and risky as they have ever been, it’s worth taking a moment to size up the market’s overall position. […]
For specialty ag exporters, supply chain delays remain major crisis
Situation has reached ‘condition critical,’ in some areas SSGA chairman says The holiday rush may be behind us, but the supply chain crisis has not subsided, especially for many U.S. […]
Let’s go! Transportation Go! conference puts focus on Great Lakes for ag exports
With great investments coming to the Great Lakes, the time is right to focus on the United States’ inland seas and the St. Lawrence Seaway for agricultural shipping. Transportation Go!, the premier conference for […]
SSGA communications team awarded
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance received two awards, including a first-place finish at the National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) Region 3 Best of NAMA 2021 awards, which were announced during […]
Competitive Shipping Roundup: UP to expand intermodal; Port congestion getting worse
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation UP to expand intermodal During a fourth-quarter stock earnings call last week, Union Pacific railroad executives announced plans for the western Class I railroad […]
Transportation Roundup: Container futures coming (again); aim to ease freight rate volatility
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Advisor for Trade & Transportation A new attempt to bring futures contracts that aim to provide a tool to lessen severe ocean freight rate […]
Technically speaking: Building strong domestic industries with imported raw materials
By Philip Shull, SSGA technical adviser for India There are many parallels between the U.S. coffee industry and India’s soy food industry. This includes the small-to-nil availability of domestic raw materials […]
SSGA presents to Indian soy food experts
On Dec. 22, SSGA was invited to present virtually to the International Conference on the Role of Soy as a Sustainable Protein Source for Health and Wellness, an event that […]
Transportation Roundup: Despite signs of progress, port congestion continues
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation The container ship and container logjam at West Coast ports particularly in Southern California, is continuing despite some signs of progress. Port of Los […]
U.S. suppliers give update to Japan’s natto industry
Natto suppliers from the United States on Monday evening had their second conversation of the year with Japanese companies in an online update meeting organized by the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance, the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) and the Japan […]
House passes bipartisan ‘Ocean Shipping Reform Act’
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance is pleased that the “Ocean Shipping Reform Act” (H.R.4996) overwhelmingly passed the U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday. The legislation, co-sponsored by Rep. John […]
SSGA elects board members; Prather chosen as chair
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance added one new member to its Board of Directors, re-elected two others and tabbed Rob Prather of Global Processing as its new board chair […]
SSGA awards second annual Alliance Honors
During Friday’s Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance annual meeting, the second annual SSGA Alliance Honors were awarded. The Alliance Honors gives the SSGA Executive Committee the opportunity to recognize those […]
SSGA announces U.S. Identity Preserved: An advancement in food traceability
Quality assurance plan benefits the U.S. soybean and specialty grain markets and global food manufacturers The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance announces the introduction of U.S. Identity Preserved, a designation […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean prices still strong
Organic soybean prices remained strong into November, even as the end of harvest nears. As of Nov. 14, Mercaris estimated U.S. organic soybean harvest at 88% complete, putting it on pace to be nearly complete by early December. With harvest […]
Transportation news and analysis roundup
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA strategic adviser for trade and transportation According to news reports out this week, rail service to the Port of Vancouver, British Columbia, may restart this week. Vancouver, one of the most […]
IP Crop Network, November Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Competitive Shipping Roundup: ‘Historic’ infrastructure bill passes – finally!
By Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade & Transportation Late last week the U.S. House of Representatives finally approved a $1.2 trillion infrastructure funding package that is being called […]
Class act: Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance unveils SSGA University
Organization offers learning modules on U.S. Identity Preserved system MANKATO, MINN. – Class is now in session at the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance. It’s time to enroll at SSGA […]
Technically Speaking: Opportunities and challenges in Indonesia
In 2020, Indonesia was the 10th-largest destination for U.S. agricultural exports, totaling $2.8 billion. The United States is Indonesia’s top supplier of agricultural goods with a 16% market share, followed by China at 13% and […]
Despite continued congestion, ports actually handling more cargo
Loaded exports continue to drag at key West Coast ports Hopes are on the rise that new efforts by the container ports and the supply chain partners that serve them, […]
Expanded maritime container capability now available at Duluth terminal
The Duluth Seaway Port Authority, an SSGA member, announced last week that Duluth’s Clure Public Marine Terminal now has the ability to handle significantly larger volumes of international shipping containers […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic prices remain bullish during harvest
Organic soybean prices are slightly bullish as harvest progresses and imports continue to fall. As of Oct. 17, Mercaris estimates the U.S. organic soybean harvest was 55% complete, mostly even […]
Competitive Shipping Roundup: Extended hours are worthy goal, but congestion is no easy fix
By Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation The search for answers to the compounded, system-wide, congested global container shipping system continues, and last week’s news and developments […]
Philippines Trade and Customs Environment: Import Practices and Processes
By Hoa Huynh, SSGA Technical Adviser for Southeast Asia On Sept. 28, in cooperation with the American Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness Committee and Winrock Building Safe Agricultural Food Enterprise (B-SAFE) Project, […]
IP Crop Network, October Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean production likely to increase
U.S. organic soybean harvest has begun making its way north, with 6% of U.S. soybean acres harvested as of Sept. 19, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Mercaris’ preliminary estimates indicate U.S. organic soybean production is likely […]
Competitive Shipping Roundup: Container port congestion hitting both sides of Pacific
By Bruce Abbe It’s not just a West Coast or even just a U.S. problem. The port congestion clogging in the global container shipping pipeline looks every bit as severe off the ports […]
SSGA meets with Japanese leaders to discuss container shipping crisis, 2021 harvest
With about 80% of Identity Preserved soybeans and specialty grains being exported out of the United States and 50% of those exports going to Japan for high-quality food products, it’s vital that […]
SOYLEIC®: Non-GMO, high oleic soy opens doors for farmers
U.S. soybean farmers could receive an added boost – through premiums, diversification, and demand – as access to a high oleic, non-GMO soybean trait technology increases. SOYLEIC®, which was developed […]
IP Crop Network, September Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Competitive Shipping Update: SSGA appears at IANA Expo
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance is being represented at the Intermodal Association of North America’s 2021 Intermodal Expo being held this week in Long Beach, California. SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation […]
Hybrid GTE brings ag to St. Louis, virtual platform
ST. LOUIS – Demand was the theme of the U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange & Specialty Grains Conference, which took place here Tuesday-Thursday. Global demand for U.S. Soy overall, demand […]
Shipping Act reform would allow FMC to determine ‘unreasonable’ export rejections
The Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2021 (H.R. 4996) includes, in part, common carriage provisions stating that ocean container carriers may not unreasonably reject export cargo if it can be […]
India: Partnership and progress toward market access
China Experience Proves Local Producers Can Thrive as Imports Rise By Philip Shull A frequent refrain from frustrated exporters to tough destinations is: “This is a market of great potential. […]
Mercaris Murmurmings: Organic markets stabilizing ahead of harvest
U.S. organic soybean markets appear to be stabilizing ahead of harvest. Although weather has created challenging conditions for many growers, periodic rains over the past month have helped alleviate dry […]
Technically Speaking: IP webinars target Southeast Asia where U.S. exports remain steady, strong
By Hoa Huynh, SSGA technical adviser, Southeast Asia Between February and August, the Specialty Soya and Grains alliance, in coordination with USDA Foreign Agricultural Service offices in Manila, Jakarta, Hanoi, […]
Competitive Shipping: Global container shipping comes under regulators’ watchful eye
The big news this week on the container shipping front is the introduction of the bipartisan Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2021, which aims to beef up the authority and […]
US ag strongly endorses Ocean Shipping Reform Act
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance was one of more than 100 agriculture- and forest-product companies and associations that signed onto a letter of support endorsing the Ocean Shipping Reform […]
IP Crop Network, August Report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
SSGA offers comments on FGIS inspection exemption
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance recently offered comments to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service’s Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS), endorsing the reauthorization of an exemption for […]
Transportation Roundup: Shipping challenges expected to continue
By Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation The global container-based supply chain serving U.S. exporters and importers is continuing to experience unprecedented challenges, congestion, delays and cost […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean markets remain unsettled
U.S. organic soybean markets remained unsettled over June, following an unsettled outlook for production, imports and prices. Across the U.S. Corn Belt, the outlook for organic soybeans has generally improved […]
IP Crop Network, July report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action Team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that contributed this month. If […]
Biden issues Executive Order to beef up competition in key industries
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation Ocean carriers, rails targeted for stronger regulation President Biden issued a broad Executive Order on Friday, July 9, calling on federal agencies to […]
Register now for the 2021 GTE
The 2021 U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange & Specialty Grains Conference will take place Aug. 24-26 in St. Louis and online. The hybrid event marks the return of major in-person […]
SSGA Board of Directors meets – in person
For the first time since early 2020 – before COVID-19 restricted travel and gathering – the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) Board of Directors held an in-person meeting. The […]
Mercaris Murmurings: U.S. supplies continue to tighten
Over the month of May, market conditions for organic soybeans continued to indicate tightening U.S. supplies. Over the month, organic soybean imports declined to their lowest level since November 2011 as the […]
Transportation Roundup: Bipartisan bill would require ocean carriers to accept U.S. container exports
Legislation now being drafted by two key members of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (House T&I) aims to strengthen the ability of the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission’s (FMC) to enforce its oversight of the […]
‘IP B2B’ connects SSGA member exporters to Thailand
By Shane Frederick, SSGA communications manager Twenty percent of soybeans imported to Thailand are used for food and soymilk and 65% of those beans come from the United States. In 2020, U.S. soybean […]
IP Crop Network, June report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that have contributed so far. If you […]
Transportation Roundup: Western railroads battle capacity
For weeks, if not months, exporter shipper members of the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance have been struggling with increasing congestion, rail and trucking delays, and shortage of truckers – all stemming from capacity […]
SSGA Zooms around the world
June already has been a busy month for the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance staff, board directors and members, who have been and will be Zooming around the world to promote U.S. Identity Preserved field crops and the IP […]
Thailand ‘IP B2B’ virtual event set for June 14-15
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance will hold another event in its series of Identity Preserved virtual seminars and “IP B2B” meetings next week, as the focus turns to Thailand […]
SSGA connects member exporters to Vietnam with ‘IP B2B’
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager With a young population and a growing middle class, Vietnam is a burgeoning market for U.S. Identity Preserved (IP) soya and specialty grains, said […]
Competitive Shipping Roundup: Inland container rail ramp congestion squeezes trucking availability
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation Trucking congestion at key inland rail container ramps is now perhaps the largest impediment to moving more container freight overseas for U.S. exporters. […]
Mercaris Murmurings: Organic soybean prices continue to climb
U.S. organic soybean prices continued to climb in May, averaging $25.46/bu delivered to the U.S. Corn Belt over the first two weeks of the month. Mercaris’ Market survey even captured some contracts coming in at more […]
USITC to continue investigation of organic soybean meal from India
On Friday (May 14), the U.S. International Trade Commission voted in the affirmative to continue the anti-dumping and countervailing duty (subsidy) investigations regarding imported organic soybean meal from India. The U.S.-based Organic […]
SSGA staff visits Illinois members
Staff from the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) hit the road in early May, traveling to Illinois to visit various members and supporters in the Land of Lincoln. “As […]
IP Crop Network, May report
This monthly feature from SSGA’s Agronomy Action team highlights growing conditions for Identity Preserved crops from different regions around the country. Thanks to the states/regions that have contributed so far. If you […]
Competitive Shipping Roundup: New FMC chair Maffei calls for review of Shipping Act
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation The newly appointed chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) last week told a major shipping industry trade group […]
SSGA offers support for OSPA petitions
Representatives of SSGA and the Organic Soybean Processors of America met last month to discuss how the two organizations might work together in the future. This week, SSGA offered its support to OSPA in its […]
‘We need action now’: Ag exporters seek remedy for shipping crisis
300 ag groups, companies sign letter to transportation secretary As the container shipping crisis continues its crippling effect on U.S. exporters, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) joined nearly […]
Competitive Shipping: Container, booking problems persist
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation There seems to be little, if any, let-up in the extraordinary imbalance of global container flow and supply chain congestion. The crisis, which is […]
SSGA joins India Soyfood Association, USSEC in new plan to cooperate
With its rapidly growing economy and a population roughly the same as China’s, India represents a market of tremendous potential for U.S. Identity Preserved soya. One pillar of SSGA’s India strategy […]
Mercaris’ Murmurings: Imports prop up organic soybean meal supplies
Considering all of the challenges faced by U.S. organic soybean markets, the first quarter of 2021 ended with the U.S. supplies being propped up by organic soybean meal imports. According to Mercaris Maritime […]
From temperate to tropical, ‘IP B2B’ connects U.S. IP exporters to Indonesia
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager There is an excellent opportunity in Indonesia for exporters of U.S. Identity Preserved soya and specialty grains, said Chris Rittgers, agriculture counselor for the USDA Foreign Agriculture Service in Jakarta, […]
SSGA meets with Organic Soybean Processors of America
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) met with representatives of the Organic Soybean Processors of America (OSPA) on Wednesday to learn more about OSPA’s issues and have a conversation […]
IP crop report
Note: This is a new, monthly feature from SSGA’s agronomy action team, highlighting growing conditions from different regions around the country. To contribute or for more information, please email us at dkee@agmgmtsolutions.com. Michigan The past two […]
No let-up in container import demand surge
Stress to transportation supply chains through end of summer Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Advisor for Trade and Transportation Inland U.S. ag container exporters are anxiously waiting for a breather from […]
STB adopts final rule on Class 1 rail demurrage billing
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Advisor for Trade and Transportation While many Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) member shippers would like to see stronger federal regulation of the ocean container […]
Spring has sprung!
SSGA Executive Director Eric Wenberg returns to the IP-ODCAST to discuss spring planting intentions and trying to better understand the logistical difficulties growers might be facing in the upcoming growing […]
Maffei designated FMC chair
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance congratulates Daniel Maffei, who was designated chair of the Federal Maritime Commission by President Biden on Monday. Maffei, a native New Yorker who served […]
SSGA comments on the Suez Canal situation
Our group of companies has been vocal in recent months about the logistical problems besetting our field crop container exports. We have been adversely affected and sorely mistreated by international carriers and an intermodal system that decided to maximize profitable traffic at […]
SSGA, WISHH meet to discuss shared interests
The executive committees of the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance and the American Soybean Association’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) met on Monday, March 20, on Zoom to discuss joint projects […]
Technically Speaking: European food preferences – what’s ahead?
By Eugene Philhower, SSGA Technical Adviser for Europe As the light at the end of the COVID tunnel appears ahead for many of us, a key question is: Will consumers return to […]
SSGA presents to Soy Excellence Center
Invited by the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) as the experts in Identity Preserved field crops, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) presented at the Asia Soy Excellence Center’s Soy Food and […]
Shipping Roundup: CP to acquire Kansas City Southern
Will create single north-south railroad line serving North American market The biggest news on the shipping front over the past week occurred Sunday with the announcement that Canadian Pacific Railroad is […]
Shipping News: Congress, media take notice of crisis
The container shipping crisis continues to garner attention from government officials and the mainstream media alike. Last week, 24 U.S. senators, led by Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and John Thune (R-S.D.) signed […]
SSGA issues transportation advisory
On Monday, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance issued to its members its second Global Markets Transportation Advisory in the last 11 months to provide an update about the current state of containerized soya and grain […]
CoBank featured at first ‘B2B Brunch’
An hourlong conversation as robust as the mid-morning cups of coffee that went along with it took place online Friday, as the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) premiered its “B2B Brunch.” […]
Senators voice concerns about shipping crisis
In show of bipartisan support for U.S. agriculture, 24 U.S. senators on Tuesday pushed for a swift resolution to the container shipping crisis, signing on to a letter to the […]
SSGA joins ag associations in plea to President Biden
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance joined 70 other agriculture associations this week in an urgent plea to President Biden for intervention into the container shipping crisis that has severely injured food […]
Competitive shipping: Container crisis dominates trade news
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation The leading international container shipping trade news media over the past week continued to focus on the current crisis in the global container shipping […]
Federal Maritime Commission demands information from carriers
SSGA applauds investigation, which includes marine terminal operators The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance applauds last week’s Federal Maritime Commission decision to issue an information demand to ocean carriers and […]
SSGA ‘IP B2B’ Philippines event kicks off
The Philippines moved up the charts in 2020, rising to No. 8 in U.S. export value, Morgan Haas, agricultural counselor at the U.S. Embassy in Manila, told attendees of the […]
Competitive Shipping: Container transportation bottlenecks not easing up yet
By Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation The current crisis in global container shipping continues, and the end line seems to keep moving further out. Today, representatives […]
TradeLanes research highlights intermodal havoc
Costs and disruptions from detention and demurrage are wreaking havoc for our intermodal transportation partners, which, of course, affects our overall ability to deliver on time with a good customer […]
SSGA Member Profile: Vijay Harrell, TradeLanes
Imagine receiving a $1 million purchase order from an international client but turning it down because you didn’t know how to do the export paperwork. In 2015, Vijay Harrell met […]
Container shipping crunch could extend further into year
Chinese New Year break may offer catch-up period but won’t fix supply imbalance By Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation Many transportation industry observers are hoping the […]
Demand for traceable products keeps growing
Demand continues to grow for traceable products such as identity-preserved field crops, and that growth brings some challenges now and for the future, says Lee Steinhauer, SSGA Market Development Project […]
SSGA members could benefit from Ag Innovation Campus
A first-of-its-kind crush facility under construction in northwest Minnesota could be a boon to the identity-preserved soya and specialty grains industry. Ground was broken for the Ag Innovation Campus in […]
Technically Speaking: Trade relations with Vietnam
By Hoa Huynh, SSGA Technical Adviser, Southeast Asia It’s very likely the Section 301 investigation into Vietnam as a currency manipulator will result negatively in our efforts to expand the […]
SSGA joins letter to Biden team regarding ag transportation priorities
By Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) joined an informal coalition of 49 national food and agriculture organizations that on […]
SSGA Member Profile: Raquel Hansen, Pipeline Foods
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager Specialty crops are nothing new to Raquel Hansen. “My roots go far back,” she said. “It’s been part of my entire life.” The newest […]
CN set to launch New Richmond, Wis., intermodal terminal
Railroad cites SSGA in announcement of facility serving Upper Midwest Canadian National railroad on Dec. 10 officially announced the launch of its new inland distribution rail terminal in New Richmond, […]
FMC warns ocean carriers to stop refusing U.S. exports
Responding to numerous complaints from U.S. agricultural exporters, including members of the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA), about shipping delays or canceled bookings, the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) […]
Technically Speaking: EU Farm to Fork strategy should be watched
By Alyson Segawa and Eugene Philhower, SSGA Technical Advisers The European Union Farm to Fork strategy, which is to be implemented in 2031, aims to make food systems more “fair, […]
SSGA Chair Bob Sinner presents at Asia Soy Excellence Summit
Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) growers and exporters listen to their customers and ultimately provide them with the specific varieties they need for their food products, Bob Sinner explained […]
SSGA featured on Philippines online food directory
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) is part of Great American Taste PH, an online directory of virtual stores and supermarkets that showcase U.S. foods, beverages and ingredients in […]
Tech adviser reports available on-demand
SSGA’s IP technical advisers delivered their reports for the 2020 Annual Meeting via video, and the reports are available to watch on the SSGA Vimeo channel via the links below: […]
Union Pacific announces intermodal service to Twin Cities
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Adviser for Trade and Transportation Terminal will connect Upper Midwest customers to LA/LB Union Pacific railroad announced the opening of the Union Pacific Twin Cities […]
SSGA elects SB&B’s Bob Sinner as chair
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance added one new member to its Board of Directors, re-elected another and tabbed Bob Sinner of North Dakota-based SB&B Foods as its new board […]
USB’s Polly Ruhland delivers keynote at SSGA Annual Meeting
The demand for protein continues to rise around the world, and there is space for everyone involved in its production, United Soybean Board CEO Polly Ruhland said during the Specialty […]
SSGA annual meeting kicks off with robust agenda
Eager to see the progress of a U.S. identity preserved (IP) brand image and strategy project – as well as to hear insights and information about shipping and trade, food […]
SSGA supports Federal Maritime Commission’s investigation
FMC to look into shipping practices that have disrupted U.S. ag exports The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA), which recently voiced concern about major disruptions in the agricultural export […]
Meet SSGA’s new market development project manager
Lee Steinhauer has been involved in ag production pretty much since the day he was born. He grew up on a farm in southern Minnesota, one he continues to visit […]
Competitive Shipping: Coverage of exporter challenges, FMC action
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Adviser for Trade and Transportation Here are additional industry news reports and links from the past week to provide deeper background on the current crisis […]
Technically Speaking: SSGA gives IP presentation to Japan, Korea
SSGA gives IP presentation to Japan, Korea Last week, SSGA Technical Adviser for North Asia Alyson Segawa spoke about promoting U.S. IP premium field crops to more than 160 key […]
FAS Manila to co-host ‘Ease of Doing Business’ webinar
USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) Manila will co-host a webinar with ARTA, the Philippines Anti-Red Tape Authority entitled “Ease of Doing Business: Delivering Safe Food and Agricultural Products” on Tuesday, […]
Farmers continue to grow IP message
If IP starts on the farm, the IP message starts there, too. Continuing its commitment to including growers to tell the identity-preserved story, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance sponsored […]
Technically Speaking: Trends signal opportunities for specialty grains in Japan, Korea
By Alyson Segawa, SSGA Technical Adviser, North Asia Japan and South Korea are recognized as global leaders in sustainable development. As these governments have displayed a commitment to environmental sustainability, […]
Container access, suspension of ag shipments draw attention, coverage
Last week’s Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance report about an unexpected move by an ocean carrier to suspend U.S. agriculture container export shipments has drawn considerable coverage and attention in […]
Technically Speaking: Increased non-GMO specialty grains use in North Asia is reason for optimism
By Alyson Segawa, SSGA Technical Adviser, North Asia The North Asian countries of Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and China hold continued potential for the U.S. specialty grains market. While overall […]
Suspension of overseas ag container shipments is blow to US ag community
Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance members were shocked to learn this week that shipments of agricultural products by containers are being discontinued by a major shipping line, effective immediately and […]
Study shows food-grade soybean acreage on the rise
In 2020, U.S. producers grew 2.6 million acres of non-GMO food-grade soybeans. That represented an increase of 7% from 2019, according to a USSEC study. The Non-GMO Food-Grade Soybeans Quantification […]
SSGA highlights EU market opportunities for specialty grains
Recent consumer research has shown that a majority of Europeans are willing to pay more when it comes to greater transparency in their food. According to the research firm DNV-GL, […]
Competitive Shipping News
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation Intermodal container rail service returning to Minot, N.D. After several years of collaborative effort, intermodal container rail service is […]
Soy samples, please!
Soy samples, please! Identity-preserved – or IP – means buyers of U.S. soy can get the specific characteristics they’re looking for in order to make their food. Those characteristics can […]
IP: It starts on the farm
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager When people in the identity-preserved (IP) industry talk about traceability, the term they often use is “fork to farm.” It’s the idea of following […]
Competitive shipping trends and developments
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade & Transportation Sky rocketing rates and demand for container imports to the US leading to service challenges on the Trans Pacific […]
SSGA to host EU specialty grains webinar
Join the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) for a webinar on Thursday, Oct. 8 at 10 a.m. CDT to explore the specialty grains market in the European Union. This […]
SSGA brings US IP suppliers, European buyers together
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) launched its marketing efforts in Europe on Tuesday, Sept. 15 with the U.S. Identity-Preserved Soya and Specialty Grains Virtual Seminar. The three-hour event […]
Inland exporters’ fears of container shortages fade with surge of imports from Asia
The dramatic surge of imports coming into the U.S. by containers over the last two months have reduced inland exporters’ fears of container shortages at the coming harvest time – […]
US Soy Global Trade Exchange & Specialty Grains Conference draws more than 1,000 attendees
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager Staying connected during a global pandemic has been important in all facets of life, and that includes the business of U.S. Soy and specialty […]
Virtual GTE comes to a close – sort of
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager The 2020 U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange & Specialty Grains Conference wrapped up on Thursday after four days of bringing together U.S. growers, processors […]
Container shipping, traceability get focus on Day 2 of GTE
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance led the discussion on two topics vitally important to its members on Wednesday, Day 2 of the U.S. […]
Virtual US Soy Global Trade Exchange & Specialty Grains Conference gets underway
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager Months of planning and coordination came together on Monday and Tuesday as the 2020 U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange & Specialty Grains Conference (GTE) […]
Alternative flour is trend to keep watching
By Dave Miller, SSGA Specialty Grains Consultant The global pandemic has thrown many product categories into upheaval. And for as many that have suffered mightily, there are just as many […]
SSGA to launch European marketing efforts Sept. 15
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) is launching its marketing efforts in Europe on Sept. 15 with the U.S. Identity-Preserved Soya and Specialty Grains Virtual Seminar. This webinar will […]
GTE sponsorship remains important for industry leaders
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager For many years, SB&B Foods Inc. had been the lanyard sponsor for the U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange & Specialty Grains Conference. With the […]
GTE beat goes on, thanks, in part, to QSSB sponsors
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager There are many ways to tell a story, and the story of 2020 has been told on our screens. That will be the case […]
Ag shipping news and developments
By Bruce Abbe, SSGA Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation Major transportation legislation awaits action in Washington As the country closes in on one of its most contentious national elections […]
Renewal time for SSGA members: ‘It’s nice to have a voice’
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) was born in February of 2019, and the first official members began joining the organization the following […]
Int’l container shipping issues, future on agenda at 2020 GTE
By Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade & transportation The 2020 U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange & Specialty Grains Conference (GTE) is less than one month away. The big international […]
Soybean exports projected to meet targets; China seeking traceability
As the 2019-20 U.S. marketing year nears its close, U.S. exports of soy and corn have much different outlooks as the industry hopes to meet volume projections. Soybean exports are […]
Technically Speaking: Food trends in Europe
By Eugene Philhower, SSGA Technical Adviser, Europe There is little doubt that the on-going pandemic has challenged the global agro-food sector in many ways. While there are some obvious weaknesses […]
SSGA continues to study phytosanitary inspection issues
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance has been working for the several months on how to improve U.S.-based grain and oilseeds inspections, a continuing […]
2020 Virtual GTE set for Aug. 24-27
Registration now open for USSEC, SSGA conference Everyone is looking forward to gathering together again as soon as possible, but until then, work must continue even in these uncertain times. […]
Hopeful signs, yet uncertainties abound in 3rd-quarter shipping
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation There are some hopeful signs emerging that the third quarter of 2020 could see the start of a turn-around for […]
SSGA delivers ATP progress report
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance recently submitted its first performance report on progress made on projects funded by an Agricultural Trade Promotion grant from the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service. […]
Mega-sized container ships begin making port calls
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation Despite chronic over-capacity among the ocean carrier container steamship lines in recent years – made far worse this year due […]
Updates from the experts
For a recent virtual trade show, Specialty Grains Lead Dave Miller and Strategic Adviser for Trade and Transportation Bruce Abbe provided video updates on their respective areas of expertise. Listen […]
Container carriers announce more ‘blank sailings’ through September
By Bruce Abbe, SSGA strategic adviser for trade and transportation Last week, two of the three global container shipping alliances announced more planned “blank sailings” in the third quarter of […]
SSGA participating in Pan-Asia Soy Food Summit
This week, SSGA is participating in the inaugural Pan-Asia Soy Food Summit hosted by the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC). The virtual show focuses on soy food and oil markets […]
High demand for tofu may signal area of growth
By Shane Frederick, SSGA Communications Manager Coverage of meat shortages and supermarkets imposing limits on meat purchases during the COVID-19 outbreak has popped up recently in the national media. Some […]
Technically Speaking: Philippines a growing market
Recognizing that it’s a robust market with potential to grow exponentially, SSGA recently requested proposals for foreign market research of the Philippines and soon will begin surveying identity-preserved (IP) soya […]
Commerce Committee approves shipper committee
By Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation The U.S. Senate Commerce Committee approved a bill on May 21 that calls for the formation of a national advisory committee […]
Ag container exports grow despite tough market conditions
SSGA contributes to current global trade feature By Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) and several SSGA members recently contributed to […]
USDA to provide $1 billion in loan guarantees for rural businesses and ag producers
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making available up to $1 billion in loan guarantees to help rural businesses meet their […]
Technically Speaking: COVID-19’s impact on global logistics
As stay-at-home orders due to the coronavirus pandemic have stressed supply chains, businesses across all segments have been forced to quickly adapt. That issue was addressed in a May 21 […]
Technically Speaking: United Kingdom – Opportunities and Challenges
By Eugene Philhower, Technical Adviser, Europe The results of the June 2016 referendum on European Union membership have led to years of considerable uncertainty in the United Kingdom’s (U.K.) food […]
SSGA welcomes new communications manager
Career changes are almost always challenging, but making a move in the midst of a global pandemic has been particularly interesting for the new communications manager for the Specialty Soya […]
SSGA launches new webcast
Let’s talk IP! The I.P.-ODCAST, a new video series hosted by the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) communications team, was launched on May 15. The first episode features Executive […]
Technically Speaking: COVID-19’s impact on trade, food security
The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on trade and food security, disrupting the supply chain and forcing people to change the way they eat and purchase food almost overnight. […]
SSGA shows support for Seattle, Tacoma port upgrades
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) submitted a letter of support to the Northwest Seaport Alliance’s (NWSA) request for funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s 2020 Port Infrastructure […]
STB issues policy announcement on railroad demurrage charge practices
By Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation Demurrage charges have long been a source of raw conflict between transportation providers and shippers. That conflict is not only over […]
SSGA Member Profile: Rob Prather, Global Processing
There are advantages to working in a small business that operates, quite literally, on a global scale. “We know the IP (identity-preserved) customers; we see their needs and opportunities first-hand […]
FMC adopts demurrage, detention interpretive rule
Container shippers hope guidelines will prevent abuses By Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation Some good news happened last week for shippers. Finally, on April 28, the Federal […]
SSGA presents to U.S. Soy workshop
India has tremendous potential to grow in the soybean industry, Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) Vice Chairman Bob Sinner said on Friday as he made a presentation to the […]
Specialty Grains action team setting direction, fostering connections
By Dave Miller, specialty grains consultant In the past three months, the Specialty Grains action team has taken a two-fold approach to adding value to Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance […]
SSGA signs letter to Congress on COVID-19-related legal liability
SSGA signed onto a letter drafted by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) urging Congress to act to ensure that essential businesses operating to support our nation’s response to COVID-19 […]
SSGA requesting proposals for technical manuals, foreign research
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) is seeking proposals for two projects related to its programs under the Foreign Agricultural Service Agricultural Trade Program to increase exports of U.S. […]
Canceled vessel sailings cause logistics challenges for inland ag exporters
By Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation Canceled container ship sailings on the Trans-Pacific are continuing to cause turmoil for U.S. agriculture exporters – in particular for inland […]
Organic Outlook: Corn, wheat face supply glut; soy market expected to remain strong
Larger-than-expected beginning stocks and more harvested acres have placed organic corn and wheat on a bearish trend over the 2019/20 market year, according to the new Mercaris Organic Commodity Outlook. […]
Traceability: The IP advantage
By Eugene Philhower In these days of polarization on just about every topic, there is at least one concept that those of us in the food and farming sectors should […]
SSGA leads way in delaying Japan phytosanitary certificate
In lieu of person-to-person meetings in Washington, D.C., the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) board used technology to hold their board meeting and visit various federal regulators April 6-7. […]
COVID-19 pandemic impact outlook puts global shipping in flux; U.S. trucking freight markets undergoing rapid shift
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation Tracking the outlook for shipping during the last few weeks of the global coronavirus pandemic has been like riding on […]
Import tariff exemptions available to China-based enterprises
According to the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council, Chinese companies who meet certain requirements can apply for tariff exemptions on imports. Exempt items include: wheat, soybeans, corn, and […]
Export container supply deficit forecast to turn; China’s renewed manufacturing and container shipping to bring surge in imports
Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation Industry sources are predicting the recent shortage of containers inland that U.S. exporters need to ship overseas is about to take a […]
Transportation, logistics workers deemed essential during coronavirus crisis
By Kim Link-Wills for American Shipper The transportation industry is critical for the movement of goods. But are all employees working for transportation and logistics companies “essential” during these unprecedented […]
FEFAC concerned about feed supply issues
By Arvin Donley for World Grain EU food and feed industry representatives are expressing concerns to the European Commission about enacting social distancing measures designed to prevent the spread of […]
SSGA launches specialty grains action team
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) team often refers to the organization’s main priorities as the “three legs on a stool.” Since SSGA’s inception in 2019, transportation and soya […]
Northern Commodity Transportation Conference to cover all the ag transportation bases
If you build it, they will come. In a matter of months, the inaugural Northern Commodity Transportation Conference (NCTC) has transformed from a brainstorm to a fully-curated meeting with dozens of panelists, […]
Expansion, improvements underway at ports serving ag shippers
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation Several ports serving agricultural exporters, including port-members of the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA), have recently been in the […]
New round of USDOT funding for marine highways and ports open for application
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Maritime Administration (MARAD) program recently announced its next round of availability of grant funding […]
Virus impact, added ‘blank sailings’ extended slowdown after Chinese New Year continue to disrupt container shipping
By Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation As reported in the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance’s (SSGA) Enews last week, the coronavirus’ impact on global supply chains, particularly […]
Abbe honored for transportation leadership
Bruce Abbe, strategic adviser for trade and transportation for the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA), was presented with University of Minnesota’s Center for Transportation Studies (CTS) William K. Smith […]
Coronavirus continues to disrupt shipping supply chains; SSGA ag shippers caught in the storm
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, SSGA strategic adviser for trade and transportation The coronavirus continues to roil global shipping and supply chains, and according to industry news reports, the outlook continues […]
SSGA visits Ottawa for training, meetings
By Eric Wenberg, executive director As we move closer to spring, work is ramping up on the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) ATP grant to brand and grow identity-preserved […]
Get to know SSGA’s identity-preserved technical advisers
By Kaelyn Platz The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) takes pride in developing ways to reach foreign markets through funding from the ATP grant. The grant has enabled SSGA […]
Japan Eyes Free Trade Deal With Post-Brexit Britain
By Mina Pollmann for The Diplomat With the United Kingdom having formally left the European Union on January 31, British Foreign Minister Dominic Raab is traveling to the Asia-Pacific region this week […]
Trade war drives drop in ocean and rail intermodal container freight; uncertain prospects for recovery in 2020
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, strategic advisor for trade and transportation U.S. agriculture isn’t the only industry anxiously awaiting for the “Phase One” U.S.-China trade agreement to start to spur more […]
Ocean container carriers urged to allow extended ‘free time’ without penalties at key ports due to coronavirus disruption of global supply chains
Compiled by Bruce Abbe, strategic advisor for trade and transportation The rapidly expanding outbreak of the novel coronavirus is causing major disruptions to global supply chains and international public transportation. […]
Trade winds blowing; Eric Wenberg talks SSGA’s mission with Gov. Tim Walz
By Eric Wenberg, executive director I had the privilege to attend MN AG EXPO last week near the Specialty Soya and Grains Allliance’s (SSGA) home in Mankato. To a person, […]
‘We’re all in this together’: New ag conference to unite all players in commodity transportation
All players in the commodity transportation industry chain can empathize with the complex system of moving commodities from the tri-state region to the West Coast for export. To tackle today’s […]
Ag shippers seek more accountability from ocean carriers on container availability
By Bruce Abbe, strategic advisor for trade and transportation The national Agriculture Transportation Coalition (AgTC), along with the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA), continues to press for reforms to […]
Minnesota Crop Improvement Association draws the way forward with identity-preserved practices
By Eric Wenberg, executive director On Jan. 8 in Fergus Falls, Minn., I had the pleasure of attending the 117th meeting of the Minnesota Crop Improvement Association (MCIA). MCIA is […]
Allyship – a buzzword with meaning in agriculture and transportation
By Eric Wenberg, executive director The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) is a partner of organizations and member of others. Our set of allies is not a ‘roll the […]
USDOT’s MARAD makes $7.5 million in investments in nine Marine Highways projects; Michigan, Oregon, Kentucky, Louisiana among recipients
By Bruce Abbe, strategic advisor for trade and transportation The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) announced last week that it has approved funding grants totaling $7.5 million for […]
Port of Portland puts toes back into container shipping waters
By Bruce Abbe, strategic advisor for trade and transportation After a long and somewhat painful hiatus, the Port of Portland has gotten a modest but very welcome restart of container […]
SSGA elects HC International’s Petrich as chair at annual meeting
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) tabbed Curt Petrich to continue as chair of the premier business association representing identity-preserved (IP) soya and specialty grains. Petrich, of HC International, […]
Kavazanjian shares IP challenges, successes at SSGA annual meeting
Nancy Kavazanjian isn’t a stranger to the world of identity-preserved soybeans. Along with her husband, Chuck, Hammer and Kavazanjian Farms has been growing varieties of non-GMO or IP soybeans for […]
Japan finalizes voluntary non-GMO food labeling law
By Bruce Abbe, SSGA strategic advisor for trade and transportation While in Japan for the U.S. Soy Buyers Outlook Conference, Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) representatives met with officials […]
Thailand government reconsiders ban of chemical use
The Thailand National Hazardous Substance Committee (NHSC) has overturned their earlier decision to ban three agricultural chemicals. The Oct. 22 decision to classify glyphosate, paraquat and chlorpyrifos as Category 4 […]
SSGA takes part in Japan Soy Buyer Outlook Conference, Taiwan’s 50th U.S. Soy anniversary and buyer event
By Bruce Abbe, strategic advisor for trade and transportation The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) took part in two significant trade events in North Asia over the last two […]
More Green From Beans
Specialty Soybeans Help Grow a Profit By Matthew Wilde for Progressive Farmer Growing specialty soybeans can make a lot of dollars and sense. Ray Gaesser said it’s almost a must […]
Ag Shippers Workshop to zero in on latest developments in export container shipping
By Bruce Abbe, SSGA strategic advisor for trade and transportation There are two big event days coming up early next month that Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) members and […]
SSGA’s ‘action of opportunity’
Last week, Thailand announced it will ban the herbicide glyphosate effective Dec. 1. In a letter to Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, USDA Undersecretary Ted McKinney urged a focus on […]
SSGA talks transportation, research on Michigan tour
With more than 300 commodities grown, Michigan boasts diverse agriculture, so it’s understandable why staff from the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) wanted to introduce the organization to the […]
SSGA talks export logistics at JOC Inland Distribution Conference
The outlook for U.S. exports and export shipper logistics challenges were the central focus of a key panel of experts at the Inland Distribution Conference held Oct. 21-23 in Chicago. […]
Slow grain exports impact U.S. rail, ocean freight demand
By Ron Sterk for World Grain Grain shippers, for the most part, are experiencing improved rail freight performance and lower freight rates, due largely to reduced demand on the rail […]
Weather or not: SSGA sponsors soy procurement course for importers
Sun, rain and then a blizzard: participants in the Northern Crops Institute (NCI) Soybean Procurement Management for Importers Course seemingly experienced each of North Dakota’s seasons in the span of […]
SSGA speaks up for identity-preserved farmers in D.C. testimony
Eric Wenberg tells USTR committee farmers need more market opportunity Identity-preserved (IP) crop farmers were represented at a hearing Wednesday about China’s compliance with its commitments to the World Trade […]
SSGA helping to improve rural infrastructure
The Rebuild Rural Infrastructure Coalition is comprised of more than 250 organizations from across the country focused on rural communities and U.S. agricultural producers. The coalition is hosted and operated […]
FMC extends public comment deadline period on interpretive rule for detention and demurrage penalties at the ports
By Bruce Abbe, SSGA strategic advisor for trade and transportation The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) announced on Sept. 20 it’s extending the deadline for public comments to be submitted […]
Natto industry members meet for annual Natto Summit
Twenty-three Japanese natto soybean buyers – along with natto suppliers from North Dakota, Minnesota, Michigan, Arkansas and Ohio – gathered in Fargo, N.D., Sept. 3-5, for the third annual U.S. […]
SSGA offers strong support for port terminal modernization
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) recently sent a letter of support for the Northwest Seaport Alliance’ (NWSA) and SSA Terminal’s, LLC’s (SSAT) joint application for infrastructure funding from […]
Germany will ban glyphosate after 2023 to save insects
By Sonja Begemann for AgWeb Germany will ban the use of glyphosate herbicides at the end of 2023. The country is making the decision as part of an environmental protection […]
FMC approves container availability recommendations
By Chris Gillis for Freight Waves The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission on Sept. 6 unanimously approved a set of recommendations to bring about fairness in the way demurrage and detention fees are […]
SSGA taking steps with competitive shipping
By Bruce Abbe, SSGA strategic advisor for trade and transportation As noted in previous editions of Member News Update, Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance’s (SSGA) structure provides that we will […]
Soy and grain industry leaders gather for U.S. SOY Global Trade Exchange and Specialty Grains Conference
Last week, over 800 soy and grain industry leaders, buyers and suppliers from 53 countries gathered in Chicago for the U.S. SOY Global Trade Exchange and Specialty Grains Conference (GTE). […]
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration publishes hours of service proposal to improve safety and increase flexibility for commercial drivers
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) on changes to hours of service (HOS) rules to increase […]
China’s purchase of U.S. soybeans falling short of pledge
By Susan Reidy for World Grain China purchases of U.S. soybeans are only about half of what the nation said it would buy earlier this year, Reuters news agency reported. The two […]
Trade deal to send more U.S. grain to Japan
By Arvin Donley for World Grain A new trade agreement between the United States and Japan announced on Aug. 25 in France calls for the Japanese to buy U.S. surplus […]
What to expect at the U.S. SOY Global Trade Exchange and Specialty Grains Conference
On Aug. 20-22, over 750 soy and grain industry leaders, buyers and suppliers are expected to attend the U.S. SOY Global Trade Exchange and Specialty Grains Conference (GTE) in Chicago. […]
Qualified State Soybean Boards see value in sponsoring the 2019 GTE conference
The U.S. SOY Global Trade Exchange and Specialty Grains Conference (GTE) is quickly approaching and it could not happen without the generous support it receives from other businesses, companies and […]
Shippers push for more say in railroad operations under PSR
By Bruce Abbe Precision scheduled railroading (PSR). Some feel it will be a boon for the railroads by improving efficiencies and lowering costs. Yet, it’s been a boondoggle for many […]
Going together: ATP funds start working for soya and specialty grains
By Eric Wenberg I have three big developments to write about on the export market promotion front. As previously reported, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) signed an agreement […]
Mr. Wenberg goes to Washington: SSGA executive director visits embassies, Capitol Hill
Eric Wenberg, executive director of the Specialty and Soya Grains Alliance, visited two embassies last week in a flurry of meetings in Washington, D.C. To start the week, Wenberg made […]
Hang Tung Resources supports U.S. soybean industry with GTE sponsorship
Hang Tung Resources (USA) Co., a U.S. commodity trading company located in the Chicago area, is a new sponsor of the 2019 U.S. SOY Global Trade Exchange & Specialty Grains […]
Container trucking turn-around times expected to improve at CP Rail’s Chicago yard thanks to new chassis location
Story from Ari Ashe for Journal of Commerce A new location for chassis at Canadian Pacific Railway’s Bensenville, Ill., container rail yard near Chicago’s O’Hare Airport is expected to speed […]
MFP 2019 Frequently Asked Questions Answered
By Anna-Lisa Laca for AgWeb.com USDA on Thursday provided more details on the 2019 Market Facilitation Program. We compiled answers to frequently asked questions. Which crops will receive a payment? According […]
North Dakota, Wisconsin Soybean Boards see value in sponsoring the 2019 GTE conference
The U.S. SOY Global Trade Exchange and Specialty Grains Conference (GTE) is approaching quickly and it could not happen without the support it receives from other businesses, companies and organizations. […]
USDA extends deadline to report spring-seeded crops for twelve states
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) extended the deadline for agricultural producers in states impacted by flooding and heavy moisture. The new July 22 deadline applies to producers in Arkansas, […]
Russia forecast to set soybean production record
By Arvin Donley for World-Grain.com MOSCOW, RUSSIA — Russia is likely to set new records in soybean and rapeseed production in 2019-20, according to a July 11 Global Agricultural Information […]
Union Pacific’s intermodal service took hit during second quarter
By Michael Angell for Freight Waves Union Pacific’s (NYSE: UNP) intermodal rail service saw average speeds sink to a two-year low in the second quarter, with shippers and intermodal marketing […]
Cost-share split sought for inland waterways work
By Chris Gillis for American Shipper Inland waterways users want Capitol Hill lawmakers to modify the cost-share structure to finance infrastructure projects on the commercial river system to reflect the […]
Taking care of business: following SSGA merger, Sue Schmitt signs off
Any writer will tell you: It helps to have a proofreader with a keen eye. For Bruce Abbe, Sue Schmitt was that person for the Midwest Shippers Association (MSA). “I […]
Plant-based protein foods see demand explosion, huge gains on Wall Street; but future might not be all smooth sailing
By Bruce Abbe There is an explosion in consumer demand underway for plant-based protein foods. As Americans fire up their grills this Fourth of July, two leading meat alternative companies […]
Handle grain with a gentle touch
By Dale Hildebrant for Farm & Ranch Guide With a growing acreage of pulses, dry edible beans and food-grade soybeans, the gentle handling of those crops is a growing concern […]
SSGA member profile: Curt Petrich of HC International, Inc.
When looking at what HC International, Inc. (HCI) all entails, you first have to look behind the scenes at who made the company what it is today. One contributor has […]
SSGA represented at Ag Transportation Coalition Annual Meeting
By Bruce Abbe Ag shippers currently face a myriad of issues and challenges in intermodal container transportation, from trucking costs, port congestion, coming cost increases from the pending low sulfur […]
SSGA staff participates in tariff and trade policy event with US Senators
Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Chris Coons (D-DE) came together June 13 to discuss their views on the use of tariffs as a leverage in trade disputes and negotiations, and their legislation, the Import […]
Shipping and trucking industries gearing up for new 2020 ocean vessel fuel mandate
Six months before ocean vessels will be required to burn low-sulfur fuel, such as diesel used in trucks, a U.S. Department of Commerce advisory committee disclosed recommendations to mitigate potential […]
SSGA to participate in Ag Transportation Coalition annual conference this week
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) will have a strong presence at the national Agriculture Transportation Coalition (AgTC) Annual Meeting this week in Tacoma, Wash. AgTC’s annual meeting is […]
SSGA directors discuss ATP grant, market access with trade and regulatory agencies
By Eric Wenberg Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) Chairman Curt Petrich and Vice Chairman Bob Sinner visited Washington, D.C., last week to represent specialty soya and grains issues to […]
Long-stalled disaster aid clears Congress
The House on Monday finally cleared a $19.1 billion disaster aid package that will benefit farmers and communities who suffered from a series of natural disasters stretching back nine months. […]
Strike halts grain exports in Argentina
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA — A nationwide strike in Argentina protesting austerity measures under President Mauricio Macri brought the country’s airports to a standstill and halted work at key grains ports […]
Ag container shippers figure prominently in latest Top 100 U.S. exporter rankings; focus shifting to SE Asia development
By Bruce Abbe Familiar names of U.S. container ag export shippers popped up once again in the latest annual Top 100 U.S. Importer and Exporter rankings published in last week’s […]
US SOY GTE Gold Sponsor is a gold standard in specialty soy, grains
The DeLong Company is no stranger to helping build up an industry. With more than a century of success, it’s safe to say the family business understands the importance of […]
How will delayed planting affect yields?
By David Kee, director of research at the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council The wet spring has delayed planting across much of the U.S. to the point where the […]
Weather, trade wars continue to wreak havoc on grain transportation
By Bruce Abbe Major weather problems continue to have an extended impact on bulk grain shipping. To add insult to injury, major trade war escalation last week has created even […]
It takes two to tangle in a trade war; premiums on food grade soya, corn trying to climb
By Eric Wenberg The week started on a grim note with the Trump administration threat over the weekend to raise more tariffs against China as negotiations between the two countries […]
SSGA member profile: Darwin Rader of Zeeland Farm Services, Inc.
Transportation. Soy processing. Seed sales. Grain buying and selling. Name an agricultural service, and there’s a good chance that the family operated and owned Zeeland Farm Services, Inc. (ZFS) performs […]
Global container shipping growth forecast to rebound; trans-Pac reliability still an issue
By Bruce Abbe In 2018, a slowing global economy helped put the brakes on growth rates for container shipping, the predominant method of international shipping used by most soya and […]
Protein powerhouse: Asia ‘key protein market’ by 2025; China, India leading charge
A recent market forecasting report on global protein consumption has predicted that by 2025 China and India will lead global protein demand with some 50 percent of total consumption worldwide, […]
Bipartisan bill calls for full use of Harbor Maintenance Trust Funds
A bipartisan bill has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives calling for full use of import shipping assessment funds collected for their targeted purpose – maintaining U.S. harbors […]
SSGA making early strides in identity-preserved industry
By Eric Wenberg Sometimes life comes at you quickly. Those words definitely define my short time as executive director of the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA). Hopefully by now, […]
China’s request to review dropping anti-dumping tariffs on DDGS could trigger major global container shipping changes
By Bruce Abbe Several SSGA container grain exporters, bulk transloaders and other logistics provider members are closely watching the China-U.S. trade talks for possible news that could trigger a resurgence […]
Stakeholders express optimism, excitement for SSGA
By SSGA staff Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) Chairman Curt Petrich and Vice Chair Bob Sinner recently attended the Southeast Asia Soyfood Symposium in Manila, Philippines. Petrich and Sinner […]
How will late planting dates impact IP soybean supply?
Wet conditions continue to put a hold on the planting of identity-preserved (IP) soybeans, which are mostly grown across states in the Upper Midwest. Like commodity soybeans, IP soybeans are […]
SSGA and USSEC collaborating on upcoming projects and events
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) has been collaborating with the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) on multiple projects. The two organizations are working to complement efforts to export […]
SSGA directors adopt membership structure at April board meeting
On April 17, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) held its second board meeting following the February merger of the Northern Food Grade Soybean Association (NFGSA) and Midwest Shippers […]
Congress talks infrastructure; Klobuchar touts $1 trillion plan
By Bruce Abbe Infrastructure development is capturing a lot of Congressional bipartisan attention in Washington, D.C. these days, and recently in the early Presidential campaign with an ambitious proposal put […]
U.S. soybean growers intensify specialty soybean commitment for world customers
As demand for plant protein increases, soybean trends also reflect an increased demand for non-GMO and organic U.S.-grown soybeans. With soy reigning as the preferred plant protein, the industry is […]
French rapeseed farmers destroyed 18,000 hectares over GMO risk
French farmers destroyed a total of 18,000 hectares of rapeseed, more than double the area initially expected, following the discovery of a non-authorized genetically modified organism (GMO) in seeds, German […]
Floods hit ag businesses hard
While historic floodwaters that ravaged northeast and north-central Nebraska and parts of Iowa are receding, agricultural operations continue to struggle to return to normal. Ethanol plants and feedlots, in particular, […]
New SSGA head makes splash in first week
Eric Wenberg wasted no time in his first days as executive director of the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance. In his second day on the job, Wenberg hit the ground […]
New organization, new logo
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) is proud to unveil the organization’s logo. The green and gold symbolizes the colors of the agricultural products SSGA represents, while the oval […]
USDA’s Foreign Ag Service holds Farm Bill listening session
SSGA Executive Director Eric Wenberg represented the organization at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) listening session last week in Washington, D.C. to hear comments on […]
SSGA tabs Wenberg as executive director
Senior Foreign Service career member to develop SSGA as global food industry leader By Katelyn Blackwelder The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) announced Eric Wenberg has been named executive […]
Brazil’s leading soy producer, plus Big 4 multi-national grain traders considering joint road, railway venture
The world’s big four agriculture traders and Brazilian rival Amaggi could make a joint bid to operate a road connecting the country’s grain belt to northern ports, while also considering […]
SSGA elects executive team
Petrich to chair newly formed organization The Specialty Soya and Grain Alliance (SSGA) held its first board meeting following the formation of the organization. SSGA is a consolidation of the […]
U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange, Midwest Specialty Grains Conference set
The 2019 U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange & Midwest Specialty Grains Conference and Tradeshow is set for Aug. 20-22, 2019 in Chicago. This year marks the seventh consecutive year the U.S. […]
Assessing soybean meal for trypsin inhibitors
Trypsin inhibitor levels in soybean meal vary by country and region, but they do not necessarily correspond with urease activity and need to be measured separately, says Juxing Chen, manager […]
General Mills commits to regenerative ag practices goal
Company targeting 1 million acres by 2030 General Mills, Inc. announced today it plans to partner with organic and conventional farmers, supply chain partners and agricultural organizations to advance “regenerative […]
ASA disappointed no tariff conclusion
After nearly three months of negotiations, President Trump and Chinese President Xi could not reach a conclusion and bring to an end tariffs imposed on soy growers by China since […]
SSGA lands USDA ATP grant
Grant to help grow specialty crop industry Is there a better way to celebrate the announcement of a new agricultural alliance than to announce that alliance has landed a grant […]
Two become one: Ag associations consolidate
Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance focuses on growing identity-preserved industry The Midwest Shippers Association (MSA) and the Northern Food Grade Soybean Association (NFGSA) have consolidated to form the Specialty Soya […]
