By Blair Shipp, ASA State Policy Communications Coordinator

For ASA directors, stepping off the farm and into global markets offers a whole new perspective on the soy they grow every day. Through travel with the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), U.S. farmer leaders are meeting customers, seeing their product in action, and building relationships that stretch far beyond their own fields. Whether it’s sitting down with international buyers, touring facilities, or participating in global events, these experiences bring the full soybean value chain to life.

More than just travel, these opportunities highlight the direct connection between U.S. farms and global demand. They offer a chance to share the story of how soy is grown, while gaining a deeper understanding of the people and markets who rely on it. For many directors, it’s a powerful reminder that the work done at home plays a role far beyond their own operation.

Janna Fritz, photo courtesy of USSEC

Janna Fritz – Tokyo, Japan

Janna Fritz (MI) participated in the Soy Sustainability Symposium in Tokyo, where global partners gathered to discuss sustainability, innovation, and the future of soy. The experience provided an opportunity to share how U.S. farmers are meeting evolving expectations while delivering a high-quality, responsibly produced product to customers around the world.

Ryan Frieders, photo courtesy of USSEC

Ryan Frieders – Jakarta, Indonesia

Ryan Frieders (IL) participated in a USDA-led Agricultural Trade Mission to Jakarta with USSEC, engaging with customers and industry leaders in one of Southeast Asia’s key growth markets. The visit focused on strengthening relationships and reinforcing the value of U.S. soy through direct, on-the-ground conversations with partners across the region.

Justin Sherlock, photo courtesy of USSEC

Justin Sherlock – Bangkok, Thailand

Justin Sherlock (ND) traveled across Asia with USSEC, engaging with customers and industry partners from more than 20 countries during the Southeast Asia U.S. Agricultural Cooperators Conference in Bangkok. The experience emphasized the importance of building relationships, understanding customer needs, and reinforcing the value U.S. soy brings to global markets.

“What really sets U.S. soy apart is that when customers buy from us, they’re not just buying a commodity – they’re buying a partnership and a support system.”

Scott Gaffner, photo courtesy of USSEC

Scott Gaffner – Pakistan & Saudi Arabia

Scott Gaffner (IL) traveled to Pakistan and Saudi Arabia with USSEC and ASA, engaging with partners to strengthen relationships and better understand opportunities for U.S. soy. The visit highlighted both the strength of existing markets, like Pakistan, and the growth potential in emerging markets such as Saudi Arabia, where interest in U.S. soy continues to build.

“These in-person engagements matter because they build trust, reinforce the value of U.S. farmers in global markets, and open doors for expanded demand that ultimately benefits producers back home.”