China Trade Remains in Focus as U.S. Ag Exports Rebound

Traders are watching for additional purchases despite continued weakness in Chinese demand.

OMAHA, Neb. (RFD News) — U.S. agricultural exports have rebounded over the last year, but growth remains below desired levels.

Creighton University economist Dr. Ernie Goss said exports to China have started to recover after taking a hit in 2024.

“We had China, of course, in 2024, and of course we saw exports to China in terms of livestock and agriculture and livestock take a real hit. Now ’26, we’re coming back. We’re seeing a rebound there in the Chinese exports, but still not as strong as we’d like to see them. And now this.”

China has pledged to buy at least $17 billion in U.S. agricultural products annually through 2028, including 25 million metric tons of soybeans each year.

With Chinese President Xi expected in the U.S. later this month, traders are watching for additional purchases despite weak Chinese demand.

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Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


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