International Grains Program at Kansas State University

Funded by Kansas wheat producers through the Kansas Wheat Commission

Web site: http://www.k-state.edu/igp/

JUSTIFICATION: The world's flour millers face increased competition, subsequently the costs and benefits of the wheat they purchase face intense scrutiny and the US wheats face fierce competition. Due to worldwide privatization, most millers are no longer being supplied by their government buying agencies, but are buying their own wheat. They are unfamiliar with the world grain trade. Additionally they are unaware of the US grain grading system, quality control, and proper storage, shipping, handling, and sanitation. Pricing, basis, futures markets, and price discovery fundamentals are not utilized adequately.

PROJECT OBJECTIVES:
1. To identify potential buyers of US wheat in cooperation with US Wheat Associates (USWA) and the USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service.
2. To solicit potential buyers and users to participate in short courses at the International Grains Program (IGP) that address the issues outlined above.
3. To identify opportunities in specific targeted markets with USWA where specifically designed IGP courses could be conducted in the country or countries targeted.
4. To maintain contact with individual participants in order to continue to provide them with the latest information concerning wheat utilization.

RESULTS: There were 223 participants in IGPs short courses. Three of the four regularly scheduled short courses cover wheat. Numerous special trade teams were met by faculty and staff of IGP at the request of USWA and the Kansas Wheat Commission. For the seventh year, the Hard Red Winter Wheat States of Colorado, Oklahoma, and Texas have supported the IGP. IGP faculty and staff assisted in consulting for USWA at crop quality seminars and foreign millers associations' meetings.

SIGNIFICANCE: Buyers of US wheat have a better knowledge of our grade, contracts, and price discovery mechanisms. They are able to purchase with more confidence and are able to obtain the exact product they need, thus enhancing their margins.

Progress Report

Review of the International Grains Program for Kansas Wheat Commission
Presented March 17, 2008 by Kendall McFall

International Grains Program Strategic Plan 2008