More than 200 international buyers and end-users of coarse grains and related products from more than 35 countries gathered in Detroit this week for Export Exchange 2016, meeting with U.S. suppliers and service providers across the corn, sorghum, barley and distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS) value chains.

Related: Speakers discuss global ag economy at Export Exchange

Co-sponsored by the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), Export Exchange offers an opportunity for buyers and sellers to meet, build relationships and do business.

The 2016 event hosted 19 council trade teams, a logistical feat that is offering international guests a prime view of corn and sorghum harvest and U.S. export infrastructure in more than 15 U.S. states. (Photo: Crisitan Gabrie Kerekes/Thinkstock)

"At a time when we are looking at a record corn harvest and the clear need for international trade to be championed by our country's leaders, Export Exchange is critical for our industry," said Tom Sleight, president and CEO of USGC.

"It is essential for us to strengthen the bonds between suppliers and partner countries, and the connections made this week will not only help propel our industry this year, but for years to come."

The 2016 event hosted 19 council trade teams, a logistical feat that is offering international guests a prime view of corn and sorghum harvest and U.S. export infrastructure in more than 15 U.S. states. Team visits began in mid-October and will continue through next week.

"Being part of a council trade team lets an international customer from a mature market or a market just beginning to develop preferences for U.S. grains an opportunity to see what we have to offer, to see U.S. grain production and marketing channels, to ask questions of the farmer or ethanol plant manager," said Cary Sifferath, USGC senior director of global programs, who manages the staff team that puts together this effort.

"These tours are a crucial part of our global outreach, and we are excited to have so many international visitors on so many teams in the U.S. right now."

Related: Demand trends focus at Export Exchange

Source: U.S. Grains Council