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
Corn and cotton gave the strongest signals this week, while soybean demand remained softer than in the previous report.
StoneX’s Josh Linville discusses USDA’s efforts to boost domestic fertilizer production and his outlook on supply and prices.
Domestic demand policy may play a larger role if export competition continues to limit price recovery.
Tennessee corn and soy farmer Josh Ogle joins us to discuss rapid planting progress in the state, improving moisture conditions, and early crop development challenges in the MidSouth region.
Ethanol demand held together last week, but lower production and thinner stocks put more focus on export strength. Production capacity is also strengthening over time and benefiting soybean farmers.

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:

Landowners interested in protecting working ground through an easement now have another funding window open until the end of May.
Beef is leading the decline as slaughter drops and supplies tighten.
Expanded export financing could provide greater support for ag sales abroad if buyers and lenders use the additional tools.
Kansas Congressman Derek Schmidt joins us to discuss House passage of the Farm Bill, its potential impact on farm profitability and stability, key policy compromises, and the outlook for Senate consideration.
The farm bill is still moving, but the toughest amendment fights were pushed into today’s session. ASA President Scott Metzger joins us to discuss the risks of tariff actions on soybean exports, concerns over trade policy and production costs, and the importance of Farm Bill updates.
A more independent UAE could add long-term pressure and volatility to energy markets, affecting fuel and fertilizer costs.