Demonopolization China steadfastly refuses to reduce the number of state-owned enterprises operating in its economy. This reflects its internal politics and patronage. However, it might want to look at similar demonopolization efforts in other countries. As part of its economic reform, Saudi Arabia is moving forward with privatizing various government entities, including the grain agency SAGO. It will sell off the silos and grain but keep subsidies to reduce the cost of food. Under SAGO, the government had pursued unproductive initiatives such as trying to grow wheat in the desert. Bogeyman Strikes Again A bogeyman is a mythical creature intended to frighten people. The modern-day bogeyman in agriculture is the herbicide gl...
Accountability and a comprehensive approach to export programming
WPI’s team helped construct a strategic approach to develop, implement, and track promotional activities in 8 key regions across the globe for an agricultural export association. With continued progress measurement and strategic advisory services from WPI, the association has seen its ROI from investments in promotional programming increase by 44 percent over the past 5 years. Not only does this type of holistic approach to organizational strategy provide measurable results to track and analyze, it fosters top-down and bottom-up organizational accountability.
What You Need to Know Today: After a period of limited activity, USDA reported a sizeable 613 KMT in soybean export sales, including 330 KMT to China and 283 KMT to unknown destinations, potentially also China. The purchases represent a meaningful pickup in demand and bring China closer to ful...
Key Takeaways: Consumer spending is a key driver of the U.S. economy, and the latest retail sales data indicate that spending remains robust despite inflation. In September, total retail and food service sales rose more than 6 percent year-over-year, with food service spending up 7 percent and...
The Trump import plan for 300,000 MT of beef supplies used for ground beef, i.e., lean trim, from September through November has, according to Secretary Brooke Rollins, brought some relief to beef prices. The Executive Order states that the Secretary of Agriculture will analyze and review the m...