Corn Exports Lead Weekly Grain Inspections Higher

Corn and sorghum exports remain strong; soybean demand lags.

corn crop aerial_adobe stock.png

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. grain export inspections were mixed for the week ending March 26, with corn shipments leading gains while soybean volumes declined sharply — signaling uneven export demand across major commodities.

USDA data shows corn inspections reached about 70.5 million bushels, up from the prior week and ahead of last year. Sorghum shipments totaled roughly 7.1 million bushels, continuing a strong pace compared to a year ago. Wheat inspections came in near 13.4 million bushels, showing a slowdown from the previous week and trailing last year’s pace.

Soybean inspections dropped to approximately 21.5 million bushels, down significantly week-over-week and below year-ago levels. The decline reflects ongoing pressure from global competition, particularly from Brazil, which continues to dominate shipments to China.

Year-to-date totals remain supportive for corn and sorghum exports, while soybeans continue to lag. Total grain inspections for the week reached about 114.9 million bushels across major commodities.

Export flows continue to reflect shifting global demand patterns, with corn and sorghum finding a stronger footing in international markets while soybeans face headwinds.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Corn and sorghum exports remain strong; soybean demand lags.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Related Stories
Jake Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance offers his perspective on current cattle market conditions and shares advice for producers seeking to stay protected in an uncertain market.
India trade tensions may affect the U.S. export outlook.
USDA’s March WASDE report leaves U.S. corn, soybean and wheat ending stocks unchanged while adjusting global production estimates for South America.
Strong exports and production support ongoing corn demand.
Brooks York with AgriSompo provide insight on crop insurance considerations and the decisions farmers are making as the enrollment deadline approaches.
Farm legal expert Roger McEowen discusses a new rail antitrust case in Kansas and its potential implications for farmers as rail upgrades signal continued export-driven demand for logistics.

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.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Export competition remains heavy despite solid trade.
Spring Fieldwork Expands Amid Mixed Weather Nationwide
Watch China’s demand signals for export direction.
Shaun Haney joined RFD News to discuss the potential impact of the Trump-Xi summit uncertainty, ongoing agricultural trade talks, and why geopolitical developments could carry important implications for farmers and global commodity markets.
Lower production is tightening honey supplies across markets.
Debt pressures could reshape farm policy and credit.
Rising protein demand supports long-term trade in feed and meat.