In this episode of the Feed & Grain Podcast [https://www.feedandgrain.com/expert-insights/podcasts], host Steven Kilger [https://www.feedandgrain.com/home/contact/15391861/steven-kilger-fg] interviews Dr. William Wilson about his paper, “Dynamic changes in the structure and concentration of the international grain and oilseed trading industry [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aepp.13524],” and challenging the narrative of ABCD dominance in grain trading. Wilson explains how digitization and facility expansion have enabled new competitors to emerge, with Chinese firm Kafka and Russian traders gaining significant market share. The conversation explores how food security concerns are driving sovereign wealth funds to invest in trading companies, creating a “competitively fierce” landscape. Wilson predicts increased mergers, greater risk from climate change and logistical bottlenecks, and more government intervention in markets. 

Beyond the ‘Big Four’: The new reality of global grain trading

Introduction & Sponsorship

Introduction to Dr. William Wilson

Who are the new players moving 70% of the grain market, and why has the market changed?

Revelations in Grain Trading Industry

Dr. Wilson's Background and Career

Historical and Current Dynamics of Grain Trading

Challenges in Grain Trade Data

How has the Russian grain industry adjusted to Western sanctions and evolved in the trading market?

Geopolitical Shifts in Grain Trading

Emergence of State-Backed Trading Companies

Future Trends in Grain Trading

Steven Kilger, managing editor for Feed & Grain, talks about the feed manufacturing and grain handling industries with those who know the industries best, those who work in it. Facility Managers and topic experts stop by to have a conversation about the issues affecting operations across the United States. The podcast explores short and long-term solutions, advice for the industry members, and where the industries are heading in the future.