Corn Inspections Lead Weekly USDA Export Movement Report

Corn exports remain the clear demand leader.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — The latest grain inspections report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) shows strong corn movement continuing to drive U.S. export demand, while soybeans and wheat remain mixed week-to-week. Total inspections reached just over 3.12 million metric tons for the week ending April 9.

Corn inspections totaled roughly 70.2 million bushels, down from the previous week but still well above last year. Marketing year-to-date corn movement now exceeds 1.98 billion bushels, running significantly ahead of last year’s pace. Sorghum inspections also showed strength at about 8.0 million bushels, continuing a strong export trend, and almost all going to China.

Soybean inspections came in near 29.9 million bushels, slightly above the prior week but still trailing last year’s pace. Year-to-date soybean exports remain well below a year ago, reflecting slower global demand and continued pressure from Brazil. China remained a key buyer this week, along with Egypt and Mexico.

Wheat inspections totaled approximately 11.8 million bushels, down week-over-week but still ahead of last year’s cumulative pace at about 773 million bushels. Mexico, Japan, and Nigeria were among the primary destinations.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Corn exports remain the clear demand leader.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Related Stories
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains why the 2026 USMCA review could directly affect dairy access, produce competition, and export reliability for U.S. farmers and ranchers.
Smaller U.S. production and steady global demand could provide better pricing opportunities in 2026.
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.
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.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer outlines the key difference between previous ECAP payments and the Farm Bridge Assistance Program.

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:

Strong production and rising stocks may pressure ethanol margins unless demand or exports continue to improve.
Rising import pressure and tougher export competition are likely to persist into 2026, supporting domestic supplies while capping export growth.
Without additional support, many soybean operations will continue to face financial stress as they prepare for the 2026 crop.
Placements and marketings beat expectations, but declining on-feed totals and feeder constraints keep the supply story supportive for cattle prices into 2026. Dr. Derrell Peel, with Oklahoma State University, joined us to break down cattle-on-feed numbers and provide his broader market outlook.
Rural population growth and stabilizing economic indicators point to post-pandemic recovery, but uneven income, shifting industries, and regional divides remain key challenges for rural communities.
Large-scale land purchases signal rising competition for ranchland, reinforcing its value while reshaping long-term access and control in rural agriculture.