April 9, 2007

CHS opens Hong Kong grain office

CHS, a leading grains, food and energy company, has opened a grain marketing office in Hong Kong, China.

The Hong Kong office is an important step for CHS in enhancing service and execution to its current Asian customers, gaining first-hand market information and promoting CHS as an attractive grain-supply source to new customers and the industry, said Rick Browne, senior vice president, grain marketing.

CHS grain marketing in the region has previously been handled through agency agreements.

CHS is the third-largest US grain company and handles nearly 1.2 billion bushels annually, 60 percent of which is exported. CHS exports US grains and oilseeds, including soybeans, corn, wheat and barley, as well as soybeans from its Brazilian operations.

The company said that as customer requirements evolve, the company would be evolving with them with an Asian presence.

The Hong Kong office would be managed by Paul Tong and include Dennis Tsang, responsible for contracts and vessel execution, and Johnny Seto, as an assistant. The three previously worked with CHS through the agency agreement.