Two of the world’s leading farming co-operatives, Zen-Noh and CHS Inc, are coming together in a grain marketing joint venture.

They announced on May 7 that CHS has acquired 51 percent of CZL Ltd, a joint venture company that will supply wheat and barley to Japan."CHS and Zen-Noh have been strong trading partners for more than 30 years," said Rick Browne, senior vice president, CHS Asia-Pacific. "This formal agreement strengthens CHS role in adding value to member-owners grain by aligning with these trusted partners in an important Asia-Pacific market."

CZL will market commodities that are primarily sourced in the US, Canada and Australia, to Japan, which is the top global destination for wheat and barley imports.Browne said this partnership is particularly significant for CHS shippers and growers sending grain from the Midwest and Pacific Northwest to export terminals in Kalama and Tacoma, Wash., and Portland, Ore.

"Strategically aligning grain origination with growing consumer demand is core to our continued global commodities expansion on behalf of our cooperative owners," Browne said.

CHS Inc, is the nation’s leading co-operative, owned by farmers, ranchers and co-ops across the United States. It is committed to helping producers and member cooperatives grow their businesses through its domestic and global operations.