CBH study tour targets Japan, South Korea

Australia’s biggest grain handler, marketer and trader is planning the trip of a lifetime - taking growers to Japan and South Korea on its annual study tour.

Expressions of interest have opened for CBH’s annual study tour which, for the past decade, has traditionally taken CBH members to grain-buying countries.

This year’s 10-day trip will hone in on key customers and processors, including shochu manufacturers, barley processors, flour and feed mills, ports.

CBH marketing and trading general manager Jason Craig said the tour was a great opportunity to gain an understanding of two of WA’s longest-standing grain markets.

“It's a once in a lifetime opportunity to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of where WA grain is consumed, and to take in the wonderful cultural offerings on offer in these countries,” he said.

“Having delivered WA grain to the region for many decades, CBH’s relationship with our Japanese and South Korean customers and industry organisation contacts remains as strong as ever.

“Japan and South Korea are two of our closest and longest-standing markets and combined, have purchased about 15 to 20 per cent of CBH Marketing and Trading’s exports over the past few years.”

The tour will be held on September 7 to 17, including travel, and will cost growers about $2200. CBH will foot part of the bill.

Last year, dozens of WA grain growers embarked on a trip to Russia, to determine how to counteract the giant company’s international grain market stronghold.

It was the first time the trip had explored a global grain competitor, with farmers visiting ports, storage facilities and Russian farms.

More than 33 growers joined two CBH grower advisory councillors, two CBH directors, four CBH staff and three media representatives on last year’s trip.

To nominate for this year’s trip, grain growers can contact their local business relationship manager.

To find out more, visit cbh.com.au. Expressions of interest close May 10.