Corn Inspections Lead Weekly Exports as China Reenters U.S. Grain Market, Resumes Canada Trade Talks

Strong corn and China-driven demand support the pace of U.S. grain exports. RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses Canada-China agricultural trade talks.

imports business trade shipping containers port_adobe stock.png

Photo by Fotolia via Adobe Stock

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. grain inspections were led by strong corn movement last week, with solid soybean demand and steady wheat shipments. USDA data shows total export inspections reached over 125 million bushels across major grains.

Corn inspections totaled about 79 million bushels, up from the prior week and well above last year. Shipments were spread across multiple destinations, including Japan, Mexico, and Colombia, highlighting broad global demand.

Soybean inspections reached roughly 28.6 million bushels. China remained a key buyer, accounting for a large share of shipments through both Gulf and Pacific Northwest ports. Additional demand came from Egypt, Mexico, and Southeast Asia.

Wheat inspections came in near 12.3 million bushels, holding steady week to week. Movement was concentrated through Gulf and Pacific ports, with demand from Latin America and Asia.

Sorghum inspections totaled about 2.3 million bushels. China remained the primary destination, continuing to dominate demand for sorghum exports.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong corn and China-driven demand support export pace.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist

As China returns to the U.S. grain markets, trade and supply chain talks between Chinese and Canadian officials are also in the spotlight, with potential implications for agriculture producers across the country.

Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to break down the latest developments and what they could mean for Canadian agriculture.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Haney explains what this round of discussions signals for Canada’s trade relationships and why the Chinese market remains critical, particularly for major export commodities like grains and pulses. He also weighs in on the opportunities and risks producers may face as countries seek to strengthen and diversify trade ties, offering practical insight for those navigating the global marketplace.

Related Stories
Higher yields are cushioning lower acreage, but reduced production could support firmer potato prices into 2026.
Producers across the country balanced winter weather disruptions, shifting export demand, and tightening margins as year-end decisions come into focus.
With record grain harvests and rising global ethanol demand, leaders across the ag and energy sectors are pushing for year-round E15 sales to mitigate the strain on grain trade.
Stronger rail movement and lower fuel prices are easing logistics, even as export pace and river conditions remain uneven.
Small, locally focused wineries are finding resilience through direct sales and regional loyalty rather than scale alone.
Recent USDA export sales data show China has been active in the U.S. market, but analysts tell RFD-TV News that the timing is a key clue.

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:

Jim Rothermich with the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers joined us to share the latest on farmland real estate markets across the Midwest.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law reviews key highlights from the House Agriculture Committee’s latest farm bill proposal.
Lawmakers from Texas and Tennessee outline priorities for USMCA renegotiations, focusing on tariffs, China trade concerns, beef prices, and stability for U.S. agriculture.
Duvall’s connection to cowboy culture extended beyond the screen.
Adequate transportation capacity exists, but fuel costs and soft river demand could widen basis risk.
Slightly higher sales amid shrinking acreage and inventories point to tighter supplies supporting catfish prices.