China Pledges $17 Billion Annually for Agriculture Purchases, Including Soybeans, White House Reports

Key Takeaways

China will purchase at least $17 billion in U.S. agricultural products each year from 2026 to 2028, in addition to commitments for 25 million metric tons of soybeans.
Improvements in market access for U.S. poultry exports and the revival of beef imports from over 400 facilities were achieved during Trump’s visit to Beijing.
New mechanisms for U.S.-China trade cooperation include the “Board of Trade” and “Board of Investment,” focusing on non-strategic sectors.

China’s Agricultural Purchase Agreement

China has committed to purchasing at least $17 billion in U.S. agricultural commodities annually for the years 2026, 2027, and 2028. This commitment is in addition to the 25 million metric tons of soybeans agreed upon in October. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer noted that the purchases can encompass a wide range of agricultural products, including soybeans, beef, grains, and dairy.

In 2024, U.S. agricultural exports to China totaled approximately $24 billion, with soybeans accounting for about $11 billion of that total. This new agreement aims to solidify and expand these trade relationships.

Restoration of Poultry and Beef Exports

Details regarding China’s commitments to U.S. poultry exports were also highlighted in the fact sheet. The Phase One deal from 2020 previously set strict conditions on when China could impose bans on poultry from U.S. states affected by bird flu. Since then, states that have been free of the virus still faced export limitations. Following Trump’s visit, China has committed to resuming poultry imports from these U.S. states.

Additionally, Beijing has reinstated export registrations for over 400 U.S. beef facilities. However, the fact sheet did not specify beef import quotas, which the Chinese government uses to regulate imports. Greg Tyler, president of the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council, indicated that lifting state bans would greatly enhance exports from key producing states like Alabama and Texas.

New Frameworks for Cooperation

A cornerstone of the U.S.-China negotiations involves the establishment of two new forums: the “Board of Trade” and the “Board of Investment.” These panels are designed to facilitate discussions on trade and investment matters in non-strategic sectors, marking a shift from prior administrations’ approaches.

Greer clarified that while the Board of Trade will focus on agricultural trade and other issues, potential higher tariffs on China remain on the table. He emphasized that the Chinese government understands the possibility of increased tariffs, which could mirror the higher rates faced in previous negotiations. USTR is currently conducting investigations that could lead to additional tariffs, with expectations for completion by summer.

Overall, while the agreements hint at improved U.S. agricultural exports and cooperative frameworks, they also suggest an ongoing, dynamic trade relationship that may include further negotiations regarding tariffs and market access.

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