Representatives from U.S. soybean organizations are in China this week joining their counterparts from several other countries to discuss the biotech-approval process there.

United Soybean Board (USB) chairman Bob Haselwood of Kansas, the American Soybean Association (ASA) president Wade Cowan of Texas, and the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) chair Laura Foell of Iowa teamed up with their fellow soybean farmers from Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and Canada, representing the International Soy Growers Alliance (ISGA).

“We met with Chinese buyers, government officials and influencers to discuss the importance of timely, science-based approvals for biotech soybeans,” said Foell during a press call from China today, noting that they brought with them a white paper that shows the economic impact of slow approvals. “This data helps put a value on the problems caused by the biotech approval system (in China).”

Haselwood said some may question why they are partnering with other countries that compete with U.S. producers. “We do represent over 90 percent of the exportable soybeans and that is a force to be reckoned with,” he said.

“It’s very important that we come together with our partners in South America and develop a working relationship and that we come with a united message,” added Cowan.

Listen to the press conference here: Soybean stakeholder press conference from China