The recent expansion of the Panama Canal illustrates how more countries are investing in infrastructure upgrades to compete in the global marketplace. U.S. Grains Council Chairman Alan Tiemann, a Nebraska farmer, was at the opening of the new Canal and says the ability to handle larger PosPanamax ships will improve U.S. export sales such as DDGs.

He says the Panama Canal expansion sends a message that the U.S. needs to upgrade its own infrastructure to remain a leader globally.

Tiemann says several ag groups are continuing to push Congress to pass legislation to upgrade and repair the locks and dams in the U.S.

Tiemann says the Grains Council is working hard to make sure trade agreements are approved that will also enhance U.S. exports.