WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. grain export inspections remained solid in the latest reporting week, led by strong corn and soybean shipments, while wheat and sorghum showed mixed movement. The data reinforce steady global grain demand, with China continuing to play a prominent role in oilseed and coarse-grain flows.
Corn inspections for the week ending January 22 totaled approximately 59.5 million bushels, slightly above the prior week and well ahead of the same period last year. Marketing-year-to-date corn inspections reached about 1.24 billion bushels, running sharply above last year’s pace and supporting export demand expectations into late winter. Major destinations included Mexico, Japan, Colombia, and several North African markets.
Soybean inspections totaled roughly 48.7 million bushels for the week, slightly lower than the previous week but still well above year-ago levels. Cumulative soybean inspections for the marketing year reached approximately 760 million bushels, trailing last year’s pace but showing consistent weekly movement. China accounted for a significant share of shipments, primarily through Gulf and Pacific Northwest ports, reinforcing its continued presence in the market.
Wheat inspections came in near 12.9 million bushels, down from the previous week and below year-ago levels. Marketing-year-to-date wheat inspections totaled about 600 million bushels, modestly ahead of last year. Shipments were led by Pacific Northwest loadings of hard red spring and soft white wheat, with additional volumes moving through Gulf ports.
Sorghum inspections totaled approximately 5.0 million bushels, down week to week and slightly behind last year’s pace on a cumulative basis. China remained a destination for sorghum, though volumes were lower than earlier in the marketing year.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Corn and soybean exports continue to anchor weekly inspection totals, with China maintaining a visible role, while wheat and sorghum remain more dependent on regional and seasonal demand shifts.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
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