Soybean markets got a little bit of a boost on the news that US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin recently had a phone conversation about trade with China's Vice Premier, reportedly trying to find some way to ease tensions so some kind of negotiations can start.  Last week, Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue told reports that while the trade dispute has hurt many farmers, most understand what's at stake in the long run.

 

"And I'm hoping that China will see the error of its ways as far as intellectual property theft and transfer, and where we can resume normal trading relationships."

 

However, for that to take place.

 

"That's really up to China. If they can change the things they're doing, that we find objectionable, then we can start trading right away. But, they have not showed a willingness to do that."

 

Coming up at the end of the month, President Trump will meet with his Chinese counterpart  at the G-20 Summit to discuss trade.

 

 

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com

More From PNW Ag Network