The Illinois Department of Agriculture says its two 2026 international grain tours projected more than $205 million in combined sales, as the state worked to strengthen trade ties with overseas buyers.

For the second consecutive year, the department hosted two Illinois grain tours, welcoming international buyers from Middle Eastern and Asian countries in September and from Latin American countries in October, according to the release. Each four-day event showcased Illinois' transportation logistics and infrastructure, demonstrated commodity quality through on-farm visits and included tours of leading agribusinesses.

The department said final sales figures from the two 2026 tours will not be available for some time. The Middle Eastern and Asian tour had projected sales of $120 million, while the 2026 Latin American tour had projected sales of $85.2 million, with 148 new contacts established.

By comparison, the 2025 grain tours generated an estimated $236 million in projected sales, which exceeded 2024 projected sales by nearly $77 million, according to the release.

"Illinois is a global leader in agriculture, and our long-term success depends on building strong international partnerships and creating new opportunities for our farmers," said Governor JB Pritzker. "These grain tours showcase the strength of our industry while deepening relationships with international buyers. Even as the federal government closes its doors, Illinois is committed to growing our agricultural economy, expanding in emerging markets, and ensuring farmers and rural communities can thrive for generations to come."

"Illinois exports nearly half of its grain, but in a competitive global marketplace, the political turbulence of the past two years has damaged trade relations," said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. "These grain tours are a powerful opportunity to strengthen international relationships and build trust with buyers. When people meet face-to-face and see first-hand the quality of our crops and the reliability and efficiency of our agricultural supply chain, the results speak for themselves."

"Illinois corn farmers need as many markets as possible available to them, especially in this low-price, high-cost environment," said Matt Raben, ICMB chairman and a farmer from Ridgway, Ill. "Exports of corn and corn products are critical for the success of farmers throughout Illinois. Developing these relationships with in-person events like the International Grain Tour is key to the long-term market demand that corn farmers require."

"Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) is always happy to welcome international buyers to Illinois," said Bryan Severs, ISA chairman and an Illinois farmer. "Since the majority of Illinois soybeans are exported, building relationships with international buyers who recognize the sustainable, high-quality product farmers are producing is crucial to growing global markets. During a turbulent time in the farm economy, these relationships are even more important."

Where the groups toured

The groups toured the following locations across Illinois:

  • Melvin Price Locks & Dam
  • Gray Family Farm
  • Grain & Protein Technologies
  • Perten Instruments
  • Clarkson Grain
  • Illinois Soybean Association
  • Marquis Energy
  • Seedburo Equipment Co.
  • Delong Co.
  • Chicago Board of Trade/MANNS Traders Group

Background

The grain tours date back to 1996, including a virtual tour during COVID, according to the release. The groups were split for the first time in 2025 because of the program's success and the number of people interested in participating. All participants are required to pay their own airfare as well as a participation fee prior to joining the tour.

Source: the original release