Japan is expected to resume purchases of U.S.-grown white and soft white wheat this week, according to the Japanese government’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF).

Japan halted U.S. wheat purchases several weeks ago after the USDA’s Animal and Plant Inspection Service (APHIS) discovered volunteer wheat plants with an unapproved genetically modified trait in an Oregon field.

According to U.S. Wheat Associates, Japan’s resumption of trade follows a science-based review by MAFF of the APHIS investigation, plus a push by the USDA and allied wheat organizations.

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Hundreds of follow-up wheat samples tested by USDA found no genetically modified material in commercial wheat.

USDA believes the single case was an isolated incident.

A statement from U.S. Wheat Associates said, “The grower leaders of USW and NAWG express our appreciation to MAFF and all our customers for their reasoned response to this situation and for their continued steadfast support.”

U.S. wheat associations work to increase international markets for U.S.-grown wheat.

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