President and CEO of the U.S. Dairy Export Council Tom Vilsack is back in the U.S. following a trip to China and Japan earlier this month. Vilsack says it’s important both governments and industry professionals understand the value of the relationship between countries. There’s still uncertainty in discussions between the U.S. and China. “There’s a hope things will get worked out, but the reality is what the U.S. is asking China to change is something that’s fundamental to their economy,” says Vilsack. “That’s not going to be an easy ask or lift for the Chinese. I’m not confident at this point we’ll see a breakthrough in the discussions.” Vilsack says there’s a different attitude in China compared to Japan. He says Japan is acting as an ally, and there may be a better opportunity in Japan to reach a mini agreement to provide greater market access for U.S. agricultural products. Listen to the story.