USGC promotes corn and DDGS in South Korea, Taiwan

USA – Last month, the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) led promotional campaigns for U.S. Corn Fermented Protein (CFP) and Distiller’s Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS) in South Korea and Taiwan, targeting growth opportunities in these crucial agricultural trade partners. 

These efforts focused on the burgeoning animal feed and aquaculture sectors, highlighting the potential for increased imports of U.S. agricultural products.

The marketing initiatives commenced in Taiwan, where USGC Manager of Global Trade, Jace Hefner, met with USGC Taiwan Director Michael Lu on April 24. 

Together, they prepared for a conference by analyzing market trends and discussing strategies to attract new buyers and expand the utilization of U.S. corn products in Taiwan. 

Lu emphasized the strong relationship between Taiwanese importers and U.S. producers, emphasizing ongoing efforts to fortify these connections.

The symposium in Taiwan delved into the superior performance of U.S. corn in poultry diets, with a particular emphasis on sustainability and the broader application of corn products in animal feed. 

Erich Kuss, Chief at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Agricultural Affairs in Taiwan, provided opening remarks, laying the groundwork for constructive discussions on U.S. corn’s role in sustainable agriculture.

Following this, Hefner traveled to Seoul on April 30 to participate in the USGC’s DDGS and CFP Trade Conference. 

The event brought together major U.S. suppliers such as The Andersons, Green Plains, and International Feed, who showcased their high-protein CFP products to the Korean market, the second-largest importer of U.S. DDGS. 

The conference attracted 80 feed industry buyers and researchers. It featured panel discussions, presentations, and one-on-one consultations to enhance awareness and sales of U.S. products.

“South Korea, known as one of the top seafood-consuming countries globally, is witnessing growth in its aquaculture industry to meet rising demand,” explained Hefner. 

He underscored the advantages of introducing U.S. feed additives to Korean buyers, citing their potential to improve yields and drive future sales.

The visit concluded with a tour of an eel farm in Gochang and the container unloading and storage facilities at Gwangyang Port, a significant entry point for DDGS imports into Korea. Participants observed firsthand the potential application of CFP products in aquaculture feeds.

Haksoo Kim, USGC Director in Korea, expressed optimism regarding the growth of CFP imports, projecting an increase from 2,000 tons to over 100,000 tons within the next few years. 

He also highlighted the competitive edge of U.S. CFP products against South American soybean meal in various feed applications.

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