WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S. — The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) and the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) will host back-to-back international agricultural biotechnology events June 20-22, in Beijing, China. U.S. and China academic, policy and business representatives will discuss challenges and opportunities for meeting global food demand though technology and trade.

China’s growing economy, increasing middle class and limited arable land are leading to a new willingness with regard to implementing biotechnology policies. Whether through efforts to increase production within its own borders or through enhanced regulations and trade policies, research and technology advancements are essential to meeting China’s increasing demand for corn.


The U.S. Grains Council — in partnership with the Development Research Center (DRC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and CropLife China — will host a workshop entitled Sino-U.S. Biotechnology Workshop on June 20 at the Crowne Plaza Park View Wuzhou Hotel. Workshop participants will identify common areas of interest for policy development and opportunities for joint research supporting those areas and develop proposed solutions for technology, business environment or regulatory structure limitations to biotechnology acceleration in China.

The U.S. Soybean Export Council and the American Soybean Association will host the International Ag Biotech & Food Security Conference 2011 June 21-22 at the Great Wall Sheraton Hotel. Conference participants will discuss efforts to enhance biotechnology acceptance and improvements in China’s regulatory regime governing import approvals. The event will provide a global perspective on trade and biotechnology; outline U.S. biotechnology developments, use and acceptance; and define biotechnology as it relates to sustainability, food safety and the economy.

According to Jim Sutter, USSEC chief executive officer “The U.S. agriculture industry is committed to being China’s long term partner is securing its current and future food security needs and these meetings demonstrate that commitment.”

“These events are indicative of U.S. agriculture’s industry foster China’s ability to meet its demand for agricultural products,” said Terry Vinduska, USGC chairman.