Dr. Sandro Steinbach Shares Expertise on Global Ag Trends at ISA Farm Forward Event

On February 4, 2026, farmers, industry leaders, and policy experts gathered at the Iowa Soybean Association’s Farm Forward: Challenge Assumptions and Grow Opportunities event, held at the Hotel Fort Des Moines in Des Moines, Iowa. The full-day program brought together agricultural stakeholders to examine critical issues shaping the future of U.S. agriculture.

Dr. Sandro Steinbach, Director for Agricultural Policy and Trade Studies at North Dakota State University, participated in the panel, Trade Truths - Rethinking Global Markets. The session was moderated by Ray Starling and featured Dr. Scott Gerlt, Chief Economist at the American Soybean Association, and Lyndsey Erb, Director of Industry Affairs at the U.S. Soybean Export Council.

The panel explored how global trade dynamics are evolving amid tariffs, shifting geopolitical alliances, and increased international competition. Panelists discussed what “free and fair trade” means in today’s environment and examined how U.S. soy producers can remain competitive in changing export markets.

Dr. Steinbach shared insights on the importance of adaptable trade strategies and data-driven policy approaches as global demand patterns shift and uncertainty persists. “Even with policy noise, the soy complex holds up because buyers need protein meal and vegetable oil. That underlying demand is not going away.,” Steinbach said. The discussion challenged long-standing assumptions about global market access and highlighted emerging opportunities for U.S. agriculture.

The event, organized by the Iowa Soybean Association, also included sessions on supply chain resilience, innovation in crop systems, and the broader policy landscape shaping the agricultural sector.

CAPTS thanks Katie Hall, Senior Director of Advocacy at the Iowa Soybean Association, and the Iowa Soybean Association for the invitation and opportunity to participate.