LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — China’s new pledge to buy more U.S. agricultural products could support farm exports, but follow-through may be difficult. Retired USDA economist Dr. Fred Gale says the White House commitment calls for China to buy $17 billion per year in non-soybean U.S. farm products, in addition to earlier soybean purchase commitments.
Those earlier commitments call for China to buy 25 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans annually from 2026 through 2028, or roughly 919 million bushels per year.
Gale says the challenge is that China’s non-soybean ag purchases from the United States have fallen sharply since the Phase One years. Lower commodity prices, weak Chinese demand, and stronger competition from Brazil could limit the value of future purchases.
Beef access has improved after China renewed approvals for hundreds of U.S. facilities, but U.S. supplies remain tight, and China’s beef imports are dominated by Brazil.
The key questions are how China defines agriculture, how purchases are counted, and whether sales are converted into actual shipments.
Farm-Level Takeaway: China’s pledge is supportive, but producers need confirmed sales and shipments before counting it as stronger export demand.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney talks about the U.S. House’s latest vote to roll back tariffs on Canada and the ongoing discussions surrounding North American trade.
February 12, 2026 05:02 PM
·
Corn demand remains supportive, but weaker soybean buying limits overall export momentum.
February 12, 2026 03:29 PM
·
Chef and influencer Marcia Smart joined us to discuss Italian-inspired beef dishes, nutrition for active lifestyles, and how global events shape home cooking.
February 12, 2026 02:22 PM
·
The USDA opened a new sterile fly-dispersal facility at Moore Air Base in South Texas to prevent a potential outbreak of New World screwworm and protect the small U.S. cattle herd.
February 12, 2026 10:47 AM
·
China’s reliance on imported soybeans remains entrenched, shaping global demand and trade leverage.
February 12, 2026 10:46 AM
·
Cuba remains a steady, nearby buyer of U.S. poultry, pork, dairy, and staples, but legal and compliance risks could still affect shipping and payment channels.
February 12, 2026 10:00 AM
·
