By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) is set to host its second grain tour of 2025, welcoming international buyers from China, Vietnam, Egypt, Jordan, Singapore, and Mauritius. The four-day event, scheduled for September 29 to October 2, is designed to showcase Illinois agriculture and encourage long-term trade partnerships.
Governor JB Pritzker emphasized the importance of the tour in light of ongoing trade disruptions, noting that Illinois’ $26.4 billion farm industry depends on strong export markets.
“As we find ways to address the impact of disastrous economic policies, I commend IDOA for hosting a second grain tour to showcase our leading agriculture industry while attracting international buyers,” Pritzker said.
The initiative follows a successful Latin American tour earlier this year, with groups divided for the first time due to strong global interest. Nearly half of Illinois grain production is exported, valued at billions of dollars annually.
IDOA Director Jerry Costello II highlighted the tour’s importance: “The Illinois Grain Tour creates a valuable opportunity for international visitors to engage directly with Illinois farmers, processors, and agribusiness leaders.”
Participants will visit major facilities including the Melvin Price Locks & Dam, Clarkson Grain, Marquis Energy, Delong Co., GSI, and the Chicago Board of Trade, among others. Stops also include Perten Instruments and RTS Farm, offering visitors a firsthand view of grain handling, processing, and marketing.
The 2024 Illinois grain tour generated projected sales of $159 million, and while results from 2025 tours are not yet available, organizers expect similar success.
Since its start in 1996, the program has grown into a key tool for strengthening agricultural exports and supporting rural communities.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-studio2013
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Government & Policy