China’s slow buying of US farm goods tests $17 billion trade pledge

Beijing's purchases of U.S. farm goods, excluding soybeans, are projected to reach a seven-year low this year, according to a Reuters analysis of customs data. Despite a pledge to buy $17 billion worth of U.S. agricultural products annually starting in 2026, China has only acquired $7.2 billion in other agricultural goods from January to September.

While China is expected to meet its soybean target, purchases of other commodities such as meat, corn, and sorghum are at their lowest for this period since 2019. The sluggish buying has raised doubts about the deal, frustrating U.S. farmers who are dealing with high fuel prices and causing Democrats to target heartland voters ahead of the midterm elections.

Although weak demand and global competition are hindering the target's achievement, analysts suggest that China may need to rely on state-owned enterprises for purchases to meet the $17 billion objective.