China, U.S. Negotiate Corn Purchases Ahead of Trump-Xi Summit

Chinese and U.S. officials are negotiating purchases of U.S. corn and discussing sorghum and soybeans ahead of a Trump‑Xi summit expected this week. Talks focus on securing alternative feed grains as China reduces soymeal in livestock rations.

China’s Agriculture Ministry has set a goal to cut soymeal’s share of livestock feed from 18% in 2017 to 10% by 2030. That target is prompting feed formulators to shift toward other grains, which could increase demand for corn and sorghum.

Traders and industry analysts expect limited growth in soybean purchases but see a greater likelihood of new contracts for U.S. corn and sorghum in the current negotiations.

Rising domestic food prices and pressure on farm incomes linked to volatile export markets have made steady feed supplies a priority for Chinese authorities. U.S. grain exporters reduced shipments to China during recent trade tensions, and renewed purchases would affect those exporters and global commodity flows.

Negotiators are discussing quantities, shipment timing and product specifications. Talks are being handled at the state-to-state level and focus on commodity procurement and logistics rather than technology or financial instruments.

Under the Phase One trade agreement in early 2020, China committed to buy American agricultural goods. Officials from both sides continue discussions and could formalize purchases or frameworks for purchases in connection with the upcoming summit.