Corn Export Pace Remains Strong Despite Weekly Decline

Corn exports remain well ahead of last year as harvest approaches despite a slower week.

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Dusan Kostic, Adobe Stock

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — U.S. corn export inspections slowed during the week ending August 20 but remained the strongest major grain export story, with roughly 51 million bushels inspected for shipment. That was down about one-third from the previous week.

Corn inspections for the current marketing year have reached 82.3 million metric tons, running about 26% above the same point last year. Mexico and Japan were the largest destinations during the latest week.

Soybean inspections improved to about 15.5 million bushels, up 43% for the week, with Egypt, Italy, Japan and Indonesia among the leading destinations. However, marketing-year soybean inspections remain about 18% below last year.

Wheat inspections totaled roughly 15.6 million bushels, down 17% from the prior week, while sorghum shipments remained minimal.

The overall numbers keep corn exports well ahead of last year’s pace as harvest approaches, while soybeans and wheat continue facing a tougher year-over-year comparison.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong year-to-date corn shipments remain a supportive demand signal despite the latest weekly slowdown.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

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