A Seat at the Table: Representing Pulse Growers in Global Market Conversations

When international buyers come to North Dakota to learn about the crops grown across the

Northern Plains, it is important that pulse producers have a seat at the table.

Northern Pulse Growers Association recently had that opportunity through a North Dakota Trade Office visit bringing international companies together with North Dakota agriculture. NPGA joined Northarvest Bean Growers Association in representing the region’s pulse and dry bean producers during conversations focused on agricultural products, market opportunities and building relationships for the future.

During the meeting, NPGA Executive Director Shannon Berndt presented to the delegation on Northern Tier pulse production and utilization, providing an overview of the dry peas, lentils and chickpeas grown throughout the region and the many ways these crops are being used in food, ingredients and other markets.

For NPGA, participation in meetings like these is an important part of representing growers

beyond the farm gate.

International market development often begins long before a shipment is made. It starts with

introductions—helping potential customers understand what Northern Tier producers grow, the quality and reliability of the U.S. supply, and the opportunities that exist to incorporate dry peas, lentils and chickpeas into products and markets around the world.

Sitting across the table from international companies also gives NPGA an opportunity to hear

directly from potential customers: what they are looking for, how their markets are changing and where opportunities may exist for U.S.-grown pulses.

Working alongside Northarvest Bean Growers also demonstrated the strength of Northern

Plains agriculture. Together, the organizations were able to represent growers producing dry

beans, peas, lentils and chickpeas and tell a broader story about the diversity of crops produced throughout the region.

The North Dakota Trade Office plays an important role in creating these connections by bringing international delegations to the state and connecting them with North Dakota businesses, commodity organizations and agricultural leaders.

For Northern Pulse Growers Association, the value is straightforward: when conversations are

taking place about potential markets for the crops our producers grow, we want growers

represented in the room.

Market development doesn’t always produce an immediate sale. Relationships take time. But

every introduction provides another opportunity to tell the story of Northern-grown pulses, better understand international customers and build connections that can lead to future demand.

That’s what having a seat at the table is about.

Representing growers. Building relationships. Creating opportunities.