China-US Trades tensions easing as China has resumed imports of US wheat and sorghum for the first time in more than a year, following a deal to buy 12 million tonnes of soybeans. The deal marks renewed agri-trade cooperation after prolonged trade tensions. The purchase – totaling 120,000 tonnes of wheat – came as both countries look to stabilize agricultural exports and bilateral relations.
In a significant sign of improving trade ties, China has resumed purchasing US wheat and sorghum after more than a year. The development comes after Beijing announced plans to import 12 million tonnes of US soybeans during the last two months of 2025.
China has agreed to buy two wheat cargoes – one of soft wheat and the other of spring wheat – totaling 120,000 tonnes. This is its first US wheat order in more than a year. Additionally, a shipment of American sorghum is also being prepared for delivery to China.
The move follows a renewed engagement between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, following which China has committed to purchasing 12 million tonnes of soybean immediately and at least 25 million tonnes annually over the next three years.
According to the US Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service, China expects to import about 2 million tonnes of US wheat in 2024-25, but with record domestic wheat production of 140.1 million tonnes last year, its imports fell sharply – nearly 70% – to just 4.2 million tonnes, the lowest in six years.
The sorghum trade has also followed the same pattern. The United States has 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, sending US exports to historic lows.
US agriculture groups have welcomed the latest developments. The US Grains and Bioproducts Council praised the deal, calling it “a positive step toward restoring long-standing trade relationships that benefit the global value chain.”
National Sorghum Producers CEO Tim Lust said in a statement that the renewed purchases were encouraging, but he urged Washington to secure long-term agreements that would ensure China imports at least 5 million tons of sorghum annually — reflecting the historical average.
“These exports are important to our industry,” Lust said. “Consistent and reliable demand from China will provide much-needed stability for U.S. sorghum producers.”
With the latest wheat and sorghum purchases, both countries are taking cautious but meaningful steps toward rebuilding agricultural ties strained by years of trade disputes.
