NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD News) — China’s soybean crush accelerated during the first half of 2026, signaling stronger processing demand even as import growth remained modest. Retired USDA economist Fred Gale reports crushers processed 47.8 million metric tons, up 6.4 percent from last year.
Soybean imports totaled 50.15 million metric tons during the period, up only 1.5 percent. June imports reached 13.55 million metric tons, while June crush totaled 9.95 million metric tons.
Crush growth also exceeded the 3.9 percent increase in industrial feed output. Meat production rose 4.3 percent, including stronger pork and poultry production, supporting soybean meal demand from livestock and poultry sectors.
Brazil’s record soybean crop supplied much of the available raw material. New crushing capacity also contributed, with several inland Chinese regions posting double-digit processing growth.
July crush is estimated near 10.2 to 10.5 million metric tons. Continued strong processing could support soybean demand, although Brazil remains the dominant supplier during its export season.
