China halted orders for U.S. soybeans and corn before tariff escalation

BEIJING/SAO PAOLO/TOKYO -- China has frozen purchase orders for American soybeans and corn since mid-January, Nikkei has learned, reducing imports of farm products from the U.S. while buying more from countries such as Brazil to ensure steady supplies.  

Beijing's move appears aimed at dealing a blow to American farmers and other groups that support U.S. President Donald Trump, who began a trade war with China during his first term and has announced tariffs against many countries since returning to the White House.