WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S. — Thomas C. Dorr, U.S. Grains Council (USGC) president and chief executive officer, said on Dec. 31 that China’s investigation of U.S. DDGS imports was surprising and could be disruptive to trade.

“China’s unusual market and supply volatility over the last two years has resulted in new global trade flows,” Dorr said. “As trade flows change, it should perhaps not be surprising there would be an adjustment period in response to unprecedented demand.”


The Chinese Commerce Ministry said on Dec. 28 that it is investigating how much damage the alleged dumping of DDGS had caused to China’s own industry from Jan. 1, 2007 to June 30, 2010. China produces about 3.5 million tonnes of DDGS per year.

China is the world’s largest importer of DDGS with more than 2.9 million tonnes imported from January to November, a 542% increase from the same time period in 2009.

Dorr said the USGC has a 25-year history of market development and capacity building programs in China, and values the U.S./China market and trade relationship.

“The U.S. takes pride in being a reliable supplier of high-quality feed and food grains and its ability to rapidly respond to global market demands,” Dorr said. “The mission of the U.S. Grains Council is to help keep markets open and support the free flow of goods. The council looks forward to continuing the strong trade relationship with buyers and end-users of U.S. goods in China and encourages a positive resolution to the investigation.”