The Missouri Corn Merchandising Council (MCMC) contracts with the US Grains Council (USGC) to expand corn marketing opportunities abroad.  Approximately 20 percent of the US corn production is exported annually.

The US Grains Council develops export markets for US barley, corn, grain sorghum and related products, providing leadership, information and innovation. The Council believes exports are vital to global economic development and to U.S. agriculture’s profitability. 

Founded in 1960, the Council is a private, non-profit corporation with 10 international offices and programs in more than 80 countries. Its unique membership includes producer organizations and agribusinesses with a common interest in developing export markets. Membership funds trigger matching market development funds from the US government and support from cooperating groups in foreign countries to produce an annual development program valued at over $20 million.

The Council tailors its programs to meet individual countries' cultures and needs.  Technical programs teach livestock and poultry producers how to use feed grains effectively and manage their operations efficiently. Trade servicing educates potential and current customers about the US marketing system, including financing, government programs, US feed grains quality and prices. Trade policy initiatives identify foreign barriers to US feed grains exports.

Meat Export Enhancement

The Missouri Corn Merchandising Council (MCMC) also contracts with the US Meat Export Federation (USMEF) to identify and develop international markets for beef, veal, pork and lamb. Meat export markets boost both feed grain and soybean utilization in the US. The US Meat Export Federation (USMEF) is a non-profit trade association headquartered in Denver, Colorado.  USMEF maintains a global network of 13 foreign offices and international representatives around the world.

In 1996, US red meat exports hit a record $4.2 billion, eight times greater than when USMEF first opened its doors 20 years ago. As high-quality US beef and pork have taken the lead position in international markets, these markets have come to play a more prominent role in industry growth and prosperity.