By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) successfully hosted two international grain tours in 2026, bringing together buyers from several countries to explore Illinois agriculture and strengthen trade relationships. The tours were organized to promote Illinois grain products, demonstrate the state’s agricultural capabilities, and create new business opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses.
One tour welcomed buyers from Middle Eastern and Asian countries in September, while a second tour hosted representatives from Latin American countries in October. During the four-day programs, participants visited farms, agribusinesses, and transportation facilities to gain a better understanding of Illinois’ agricultural supply chain, grain quality, and export infrastructure.
Governor JB Pritzker emphasized the importance of international partnerships in supporting the state’s agricultural economy.
“Illinois is a global leader in agriculture, and our long-term success depends on building strong international partnerships and creating new opportunities for our farmers,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “These grain tours showcase the strength of our industry while deepening relationships with international buyers. Even as the federal government closes its doors, Illinois is committed to growing our agricultural economy, expanding in emerging markets, and ensuring farmers and rural communities can thrive for generations to come.”
According to IDOA Director Jerry Costello II, the tours play an important role in rebuilding and strengthening trade connections in a competitive global marketplace.
“Illinois exports nearly half of its grain, but in a competitive global marketplace, the political turbulence of the past two years has damaged trade relations,” said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. “These grain tours are a powerful opportunity to strengthen international relationships and build trust with buyers. When people meet face-to-face and see first-hand the quality of our crops and the reliability and efficiency of our agricultural supply chain, the results speak for themselves.”
The Middle Eastern and Asian grain tour generated projected sales of $120 million, while the Latin American tour generated projected sales of $85.2 million and helped establish 148 new business contacts.
These results demonstrate the value of direct engagement between producers and international buyers.
Matt Raben, ICMB Chairman and farmer from Ridgway, Illinois, highlighted the importance of export markets for corn producers.
“Illinois corn farmers need as many markets as possible available to them, especially in this low-price, high-cost environment,” said Matt Raben, ICMB Chairman and farmer from Ridgway, Ill. “Exports of corn and corn products are critical for the success of farmers throughout Illinois. Developing these relationships with in-person events like the International Grain Tour is key to the long-term market demand that corn farmers require.”
Bryan Severs, ISA Chairman and Illinois farmer, also stressed the importance of global connections for soybean producers.
"Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) is always happy to welcome international buyers to Illinois," said Bryan Severs, ISA Chairman and Illinois farmer. "Since the majority of Illinois soybeans are exported, building relationships with international buyers who recognize the sustainable, high-quality product farmers are producing is crucial to growing global markets. During a turbulent time in the farm economy, these relationships are even more important.”
Participants visited several locations across Illinois, including Melvin Price Locks & Dam, Gray Family Farm, Grain & Protein Technologies, Perten Instruments, Clarkson Grain, Illinois Soybean Association, Marquis Energy, Seedburo Equipment Co., Delong Co., and the Chicago Board of Trade/MANNS Traders Group. Since its launch in 1996, the Illinois Grain Tour program has continued to grow, helping strengthen international trade and creating new opportunities for Illinois agriculture.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-giovanni1232
Categories: Illinois, Business, Crops, Corn, Soybeans, Government & Policy