Corn Sales Hold Strong While Soybeans Hit Low

Weak soybean sales and soft wheat demand contrast with solid corn export strength.

SELECTS_FARMHER_ 20_03_30_USA_ALL_VARIOUS_0124.jpg

FarmHER, Inc.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — Export demand showed mixed signals this week, with corn maintaining strong sales while soybeans posted a marketing-year low, raising concerns about near-term price support for producers.

Corn export sales reached 55.1 million bushels, up from the prior week and above the four-week average, with strong demand from Japan, South Korea, and Mexico. Export shipments totaled 61.3 million bushels, led by Mexico and key Asian buyers, reinforcing steady global demand for U.S. corn.

Soybeans, however, saw sales drop to just 9.1 million bushels — a marketing-year low — signaling weak forward demand. Despite that, exports were stronger at 30.1 million bushels, with China taking 12.7 million bushels, highlighting continued reliance on shipment flow rather than new buying.

Wheat sales came in at 3.7 million bushels, sharply lower week-over-week, while exports totaled 11.5 million bushels, reflecting softer demand trends. Cotton sales declined significantly, down 50% from the prior week, with ongoing demand centered in Vietnam, Turkey, and Pakistan.

In livestock, pork sales improved modestly with China purchasing 3,800 metric tons, while beef demand remained steady, led by South Korea and Japan.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Weak soybean sales and soft wheat demand contrast with solid corn export strength.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist

(Tags: Export Sales, Corn, Soybeans, Wheat, Cotton, Pork, Beef, China, USDA, Global Trade)

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:

High milk production and soft retail demand are squeezing prices and margins — making careful feed and risk management essential through year-end.
Arizona producers are proving that desert farming and water conservation can coexist through technology, reuse, and efficiency — reinforcing both food security and environmental stewardship.
Rabobank’s outlook signals a tightening margin environment, emphasizing the need for cost control, trade stability, and clearer policy signals heading into 2026.
Treat succession like any major crop — plan early, document clearly, and calibrate cash flow so the next generation can succeed.
Chris Bliley with Growth Energy discusses ongoing concerns about U.S. ethanol exports and the expansion of market access promised under the Phase One deal between the U.S. and China.
With core input inflation still hovering high, growers and retailers should plan pricing and promotions with tighter margins in mind — target early sales, leverage bundle deals, and secure logistics ahead of peak Halloween demand.