By Jamie Martin
The United States and Japan share a long and trusted relationship built on reliable wheat trade. Japan remains one of the largest and most loyal buyers of U.S. wheat, importing nearly half of its total wheat needs. Maintaining this relationship depends on clear communication, transparency, and high-quality standards.
In mid-December, a Japanese delegation from the Ministry of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries and the Japanese Flour Millers Association visits the U.S. West Coast. The goal is to strengthen the wheat supply chain and address concerns about soybean admixture in wheat shipments.
Soybean admixture refers to the unintentional presence of small soybean pieces in wheat shipments. This occurs when equipment storage or transportation systems handle multiple crops. While this foreign material is monitored under strict USDA Federal Grain Inspection Service standards, it remains a concern for Japan because soybeans are a major allergen for consumers.
All U.S. wheat shipments to Japan meet contract requirements and undergo testing by both FGIS and OMIC an independent Japanese inspection service. Even so Japanese officials request continued efforts to further reduce admixture levels.
“U.S. exporters and producers have long implemented initiatives to reduce foreign grain admixture, and the overall admixture rate has declined as a result,” said Steve Wirsching, vice president and director of the USW West Coast Office in Portland, Oregon. “However, sporadic admixture, particularly with soybeans, still occurs, and Japanese milling companies continue to request improvements to minimize and prevent admixtures as much as possible.”
Meetings include discussions with wheat commissions of grain companies and supply chain representatives from several states. The group explores solutions such as improved equipment cleaning and better communication with elevators that handle multiple crops.
“The longstanding relationship between the United States and Japan depends on smooth wheat trade, cooperation, transparency and trust,” said Brittany Hurst Marchant, executive director of the Idaho Wheat Commission. “The Japanese delegation came prepared with charts and graphs that provide a visual representation of soybean admixture in U.S. wheat classes. The good faith the members of the delegation showed by coming to us directly to find a solution, rather than shifting purchases to competitor origins, demonstrated respect, loyalty, trust and a genuine desire to keep trade and relationships strong between MAFF, JFMA and U.S. wheat producers.”
The visit ends with a tour of an export facility. Ongoing discussions will continue to support quality improvement and strong trade relations.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ygrek
Categories: National