ASA President Reacts to September’s WASDE Report and ‘Dire’ Trade Deficit on Soy

American Soybean Association President Caleb Ragland joins us to share his reaction to September’s WASDE and discuss the trade uncertainty between China and his industry.

American farmers this year planted more corn acres than they have since the 1930s. The September WASDE report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) estimates now show even more of that crop heading to the bins than previously thought.

While soybean production is also expected to increase slightly from previous estimates, it is down 2 percent from last year’s totals. The American Soybean Association (ASA) has been closely monitoring the numbers, particularly since China is no longer at the buying table.

ASA President Caleb Ragland joins us on Friday’s Market Day Report for his reaction to September’s WASDE. In his interview with RFD-TV’s own Suzanne Alexander, Ragland discusses his recent warning that the soybean sector is in a “dire” situation due to trade uncertainty with China, and how this growing crisis might have a ripple effect on the markets. He also discussed the Trump Administration’s recent trade deal with Japan, one of the top 10 international markets for soy, and whether the agreement is enough to offset the loss of China as a buyer.

Ragland also addressed the recent House vote to reauthorize the US Grain Standards Act, its impact on soy, and provided an update on harvest progress in Kentucky, where he lives.

Related Stories
Southern producers head into 2026 with thin margins, tighter credit, and rising agronomic risks despite scattered yield improvements.
Record yields and exceptionally low BCFM strengthen U.S. corn’s competitive position in global markets.
Credit stress is building for row-crop farms despite steady land values and slight price improvements.
Mike Steenhoek, with the Soy Transportation Commission, shares his outlook on current grain stocks and transportation lines amid bumper crops filling bins across the United States.
American soybean and corn leaders, along with Canada’s AgriFood sector, testified before the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office in support of the trade pact between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
“The Expanding Access to Risk Protection (EARP) Final Rule streamlines requirements across multiple crops, responds to producer feedback, and strengthens USDA’s commitment to putting America’s farmers first,” said the USDA.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

NEFB President Mark McHargue recaps the Farm Bureau’s Annual Convention, producer sentiment in Nebraska, and discusses key issues facing agriculture.
Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss key ag policy developments and his outlook for agriculture in 2026.
House Agriculture Committee Democrats are calling for action on the Farm and Family Relief Act, warning that proposed SNAP cost shifts to states could reduce food assistance for low-income families amid ongoing tariffs and trade disruptions that continue to strain U.S. farmers.
Expanded school access to whole milk provides modest but reliable demand support for U.S. dairy producers.
StockShowAuctions.com takes us to the Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas, where young producers are showcasing their dedication, skill, and champion livestock.
Alissa White with American Farmland Trust joined us to provide insight into climate resilience efforts and strategies to help farmers manage weather-related risks.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.