$2 Billion Vietnam Trade Pact with U.S. Agribusiness Set to Boost Ohio Farmers

A delegation from the Vietnamese government and business community, led by H.E. Do Duc Duy, Minister of Agriculture and Environment, visited Ohio recently to sign a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with U.S. agricultural companies. OABA Board Director Don Daniels was in attendance and spoke to the delegation on behalf of Ohio's agribusinesses.

The Columbus stop is part of a multi-state mission that began in Iowa on Monday, June 2, 2025. In total, the Vietnamese delegation is expected to enter into agreements to purchase more than $2 billion in U.S. agricultural products, including corn, soybeans, distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGs), wheat, meat, and timber.

The event signals a new chapter in trade relations between the U.S. and Vietnam, underscoring Ohio’s role as a key partner. Vietnam chose Ohio because of its strong agricultural sector, modern infrastructure, and history of innovation in food and commodity production. Its central location and agricultural expertise make it an ideal link between the American heartland and rapidly growing Southeast Asian markets.

"Food and agriculture are Ohio’s number one industry, and we depend on our farmers to fuel our economy and support the global food supply," said Brian Baldridge, Director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture. "We’re proud to work alongside our agricultural partners to strengthen international connections and create new opportunities for farmers, agribusinesses, and rural communities."

“These agreements represent a major win for Ohio corn farmers,” said Patty Mann, Chair of the Ohio Corn Checkoff. “Vietnam continues to be a growing and reliable export market, and partnerships like this help ensure we can keep delivering high-quality, Ohio-grown products to the world.”

“These MOUs are the result of years of relationship-building and strategic collaboration,” commented Ryan LeGrand, President & CEO of the U.S. Grains Council. “Vietnam is an increasingly important market, and these agreements reflect the strength of our ongoing relationship.

The timing of these new agreements is significant for Ohio’s farm economy, as producers face rising costs, lower commodity prices, and an urgent need to access new markets for soybeans, grains, meat, timber, and other agricultural products.

Owen Niese, Chair of the Ohio Small Grains Checkoff, noted, "These agreements generate momentum not only for farmers but also for rural economies statewide. We’re pleased to have Ohio wheat and small grains featured in this new trade venture with Vietnam.”

“Soybeans are Ohio’s top agricultural export, and this agreement opens even more doors for our growers,” said Rusty Goebel, Williams County farmer and Ohio Soybean Association president. “Vietnam is a market with strong demand and long-term potential, and we’re excited about what this partnership means for future growth.”

Following the ceremony in Columbus, the Vietnamese delegation will travel to Washington, D.C., and Maryland to continue discussions with federal officials on trade and tariff matters. Together, these meetings demonstrate a shared commitment to balancing trade, expanding exports, and strengthening the U.S.–Vietnam partnership.

“Ohio exemplifies the best of American agriculture due to its productive, innovative, and globally engaged agricultural community,” stated H.E. Do Duc Duy, Vietnam Minister of Agriculture and Environment. “With these MOU agreements, we are strengthening our commitment to a robust and mutually beneficial trade relationship with the United States.”

Click here to explore the full photo gallery from the MOU signing ceremony.