MSGA President, Executive Director to Join European Trade Mission

Looking ahead to 2026, Minnesota Soybean is seeking to grow demand within one of the largest markets for U.S. soybeans, the European Union. In his first international trade mission as president of the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA), Darin Johnson will join Gov. Tim Walz, Ag Commissioner Thom Petersen and commodity group leaders on a tour of Switzerland and Germany Nov. 15-21, 2025.  

“I’m excited to explore and learn more about agriculture in Europe,” said Johnson, who farms in Wells. “It’s also a great opportunity to promote and talk about Minnesota agriculture and how we raise quality, sustainable crops.”  

The delegation will travel to major business centers in Zürich, Düsseldorf and Berlin. The mission will focus on growing the state’s exports of goods and services, showcasing Minnesota as a top destination for business investment, developing new partnership opportunities and strengthening existing trade and diplomatic ties. 

“As some of the largest and most innovative economies in the world, Germany and Switzerland both offer excellent opportunities for Minnesota businesses to expand their exports,” Gov. Walz said. “I look forward to strengthening our relationships in technology, agriculture and education.”