The US government is set to dispatch a group of American growers and exporters of agricultural products to China in the coming fall for exchanges with Chinese officials in Beijing, followed by a high-profile presence at a key import fair in Shanghai.
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This will mark the third year that the US Department of Agriculture has organised an annual trip to China, the largest overseas market for American farmers. But this year’s journey, likely in November, will take on extra significance and urgency, as both countries seek to stabilise ties while Beijing is still seen slashing purchases from the US as trade tensions linger.
Other than calling on Chinese government agencies, likely including the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, to step up dialogue, the highlight of the trip is to launch an American pavilion featuring food and farm goods at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai.
About 20 participants comprising state representatives, agricultural associations and exporters will set up booths inside the 350-square-metre American pavilion.
In 2024, the American Pavilion at the import expo had 14 US exhibitors and 2023’s number was 17.
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Like in previous years, a USDA undersecretary or a representative holding equivalent rank will be the officiating guest at the pavilion’s unveiling ceremony. Washington’s newly appointed ambassador to China, David Perdue, may also attend, according to people with knowledge of the arrangement.