In a significant sign of improving trade relations, China has resumed purchases of US wheat and sorghum after more than a year. The development follows Beijing’s announcement to import 12 million tonnes of American soybeans during the last two months of 2025.
China has agreed to purchase two wheat cargoes — one of soft wheat and another of spring wheat — totaling 120,000 tonnes. This marks its first US wheat order in over a year. Additionally, shipments of American sorghum are also being prepared for delivery to China.
The move follows renewed engagement between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, after which China committed to buying 12 million tonnes of soybeans immediately and at least 25 million tonnes annually over the next three years.
China imported nearly 2 million tonnes of US wheat in 2024–25, but with a record domestic wheat output of 140.1 million tonnes last year, its imports dropped sharply—by about 70%—to just 4.2 million tonnes, the lowest in six years, according to the US Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service.
Sorghum trade has followed a similar pattern. The United States had long been China’s primary supplier, providing 5.6 million tonnes in 2023–24. But due to trade tensions, China shifted purchases to Australia and Argentina, leaving US exports at historic lows.
American farm groups have welcomed the latest progress. The US Grains & Bio Products Council praised the deal, calling it “a positive step toward restoring a long-standing trade relationship that benefits the global value chain.”
Tim Lust, CEO of the National Sorghum Producers, in a statement said the renewed purchases were encouraging but urged Washington to secure long-term agreements ensuring China imports at least 5 million tonnes of sorghum annually — reflecting historical averages.
“These exports are vital to our industry,” Lust said. “A consistent and reliable demand from China would provide much-needed stability for American sorghum growers.”
With the latest wheat and sorghum purchases, both nations appear to be taking cautious yet meaningful steps toward rebuilding agricultural ties strained by years of trade disputes.