Farmland Markets Adjust as Growers Weigh China Demand and Tight Margins

ASFMRA’s Dennis Reyman discusses farmer sentiment, land values, and how global and financial pressures are shaping decision-making in the ag land market.

STORM LAKE, IOWA (RFD NEWS) — From global export developments to ongoing financial stress, farmers are weighing a number of factors as they make decisions this year, including how to navigate today’s farmland real estate market.

Dennis Reyman of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA) joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to share insight into how producers are responding to recent market signals.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Reyman discussed the reaction to reports of potential soybean sales to China, noting how renewed export optimism has been received by farmers in his region. He also addressed whether that improved soybean outlook could lead to any acreage shifts this spring, explaining how producers are balancing crop economics with longer-term planning considerations.

Financial stress across agriculture remains a key concern, and Reyman shared what he is seeing on the ground regarding land values this winter. While pressures are evident in some areas, he offered a perspective on how the land market is adjusting. He also weighed the current outlook against the 1980s farm crisis, outlining key differences in today’s financial environment and explaining why the current situation, while challenging, is not a direct parallel.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Tariff relief may soften grocery prices, but it also intensifies competition for U.S. fruit, vegetable, and beef producers as cheaper imports regain market share.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture is helping connect veterans with resources to pursue careers in farming and agriculture.
USMEF’s Jay Theiler discusses his leadership role in representing U.S. beef and pork and provides an update on this week’s conference in Indianapolis.
Manure from a hog farm is more than just waste; it is also becoming a key renewable resource for operations.
As economic pressures continue to squeeze agriculture, ag lenders are signaling a more cautious outlook for farm profitability heading into next year, particularly among grain producers facing lower commodity prices and higher operating costs.
Longtime MLF pro angler Fred “Boom Boom” Roumbanis shares how he and Jeff Sprague of Team YETI are preparing for the Team Series Summit Cup.