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.

Related Stories
Elizabeth Strom of the American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers joined RFD-TV to provide the latest perspective on post-harvest business planning and cropland markets in the Midwest.
Only properly documented, unexhausted fertilizer applied by prior owners may qualify for Section 180 expensing; broader nutrient-based claims carry significant legal and tax risk.
Hunter Biram, an extension economist with the University of Arkansas, is tracking Mississippi River water levels as grain shippers shift their focus to transportation following the wrap-up of fall harvest.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities shares an update on post-WASDE grain movement, with corn leading export momentum, soybeans steady, and wheat and sorghum continuing to move selectively.

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:

AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
In a post to social media, Trump said Venezuela will buy American agriculture products and will use the money from oil sales to make it happen.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
Wed, 1/21/26 – 7:30 PM ET
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share insights on building healthy habits and improving rural health in the year ahead.