WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — U.S. grain export inspections to start the new year reinforce a familiar theme for producers — corn continues to carry the demand load, while soybeans remain uneven but still tied closely to China. USDA data for the week ending January 1 show total grain inspections holding near recent averages, with corn providing the clearest support signal.
Corn inspections totaled 47.5 million bushels, down modestly from the prior week but sharply higher than the same week last year. Cumulative corn inspections now exceed 1.05 billion bushels, running well ahead of last year’s pace. Mexico remained a major destination, while shipments to Japan, Colombia, and other Pacific markets continued to diversify demand beyond a single buyer.
Soybean inspections reached 36.0 million bushels, rebounding from the prior week but still trailing year-ago levels. China remained a key buyer, receiving deliveries through both Gulf and Pacific Northwest ports, with additional shipments to Egypt, Indonesia, Italy, and Pakistan. The continued presence of China, even during a seasonal lull, underscores that demand has slowed but not disappeared.
Wheat inspections came in at 6.7 million bushels, down week over week but still ahead of last year on a marketing-year basis. Most wheat moved through Pacific Northwest ports, dominated by soft white classes, with smaller volumes through Gulf and interior channels.
Sorghum inspections surged to 9.6 million bushels, driven primarily by China, which accounted for most shipments. That strength continues to differentiate sorghum from other feed grains as China re-engages with the market.
Overall, the inspection data indicate stable export activity, with corn and sorghum providing the most consistent demand signals early in 2026.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Corn export strength remains a key demand anchor, while China’s continued involvement in soybeans and sorghum bears close watching for price direction.
Tony St. James
Higher rail tariffs and tighter Canadian supplies will keep oat transportation costs firm into 2026.
November 24, 2025 11:22 AM
·
Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses industry reactions to the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, the Surface Transportation Board’s review process, and current conditions on the Mississippi River.
November 21, 2025 01:59 PM
·
Lower tariff rates and new rail-service proposals may improve corn movement efficiency during early-season marketing.
November 21, 2025 12:01 PM
·
Crop producers face tightening credit and lower incomes, while strong cattle markets continue to stabilize finances in livestock-heavy regions.
November 21, 2025 11:58 AM
·
Row crop losses in 2025 are outpacing last year. With no disaster aid yet approved, many operations face a tough financial bridge to 2026 even as Farm Bill improvements remain a year away.
November 20, 2025 05:00 PM
·
Heavy rains are wreaking havoc on Argentina’s farmland, leaving nearly 4 million acres at risk and delaying corn and soybean plantings in one of the world’s top grain export regions.
November 20, 2025 01:21 PM
·
Bangladesh recently pledged to purchase 700,000 tons of U.S. wheat and has also become a new buyer of American soybeans.
November 20, 2025 12:53 PM
·
Ethanol exports are expanding on strong demand from Canada and Europe, while DDGS shipments remain broad-based and supportive for feed markets.
November 20, 2025 11:12 AM
·
Dalton Henry, with U.S. Wheat Associates, joined RFD-TV to provide insight on what the pending trade frameworks may mean for American wheat growers.
November 19, 2025 04:11 PM
·
